How Do You Make Steel Drum Heads?
Steel drum heads create the captivating tones of calypso music, the brand of music native to the Caribbean. The process of making this percussion instrument takes considerable skill. Those who make authentic steel drums usually study the process for at least 10 years before becoming skilled in the craft. The process of making steel drum heads may be challenging, but the finished result produces music that many people enjoy. Choose a 55-gallon drum. Make sure the drum is free of rust or cuts. Avoid drums that have been galvanized or reconditioned. Take the filling plug off the head of the drum, and turn the drum upside down. Pound the bottom of the drum with a sledgehammer until you have a smooth, concave dish. Use the sledgehammer with care to avoid making holes in the metal. Cut the top of the drum off. Leave enough of the sides of the drum to suit the desired length of the skirt for the steel pan. Cover the edges, or bend them over, to avoid cuts. Mark out the note pattern on the dru
