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The Cambridge University Steel Pan Society (CUSPS)

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CUSPS was founded by the students of Lucy Cavendish College in 2009, with the aim to “promote the history and culture of steelpan and Caribbean culture in one of the most traditional English settings”, as written in their original mission statement. From October 2022, the society started partnering with Saint Michael’s and All Angels Steel Orchestra (SMA3SO) and their very own Musical Director, Patrick McKay, who is following on from Anna Lawrence, the previous Musical Director of many years.

The Cambridge University Steel Pan Society (CUSPS) is open to all members of the University of Cambridge, regardless of musical skill level; CUSPS warmly welcomes both beginners and experienced pannists. CUSPS is the only music society in Cambridge which welcomes complete beginners with no previous experience of steel pans, or any musical instrument! CUSPS performs at various events throughout the year, most notably Cambridge May Balls and in the past.

They teach their members how to play the steel pan from scratch, and play music ranging from Stevie Wonder to ABBA and Clean Bandit. They welcome players of all abilities and also encourage their members to try arranging pieces for the band themselves. They typically perform for garden parties and May Balls at the end of the year, as well as busking in the town centre at the end of term. They welcome drummers with some experience to join them and utilise their drum kit to its full potential.

They also offer all their band members the chance to learn about the history and culture of the instrument, and to engage with the broader steel pan community in the UK through events such as the Panorama competition at Notting Hill Carnival, and Steelpan conferences.

They practise every Monday evening at Jesus College, however newcomers can choose when to attend practices as they provide a very relaxing atmosphere at CUSPS. They usually hold three sessions on Mondays in Michaelmas, two for beginners and another for more experienced pannists. In Lent and Easter Term, there are only be two sessions on Mondays. Their current President, Williti Okailey Ofei and members of CUSPS continue to spread the steelpan gospel and the wonderful work that CUSPS has done in promoting the steelpan culture and its music.

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