Lexington Books The Emergence of the U.S. School Steel Band Movement: The Saga of Steel

This work examines the spread of the steelpan art form within U.S. music education, specifically in schools and universities. This is set within the context of a large Caribbean diaspora, which brought the music and culture to the U.S. This is followed by an in-depth examination into the implications for steel bands and music education going forward. This research includes 'family trees' that illustrate the impact of various programs on the spread of the art form and includes information on one of the earliest U.S. school steel band programs in the concluding case study chapter. The work includes numerous resources for steel band directors and music educators interested in this topic. Review Dr. Haskett's The Emergence of the U.S. School Steel Band Movement: The Saga of Steel is a must read for all steel band directors and players alike. At last, the story of this remarkable movement is consummately told. Through his extensive research, candid interviews, and hard data, Dr. Haskett presents a complete and accurate narrative of the people, places and events that forged a movement and continue to guide its trajectory. A significant contribution!--Tom Miller, University of Denver, Lamont School of Music If you have been waiting for a book that definitively chronicles the development of the steelband movement in the United States, this is it. Brandon Haskett's new text, The Saga of Steel, presents the story of the American steelband movement from its origins to its current developments, and does so through historic insights and comprehensive references. It is, simultaneously, extremely readable and deeply compelling. This serves to make Haskett's work both vitally relevant and timelessly historic. The Saga of Steel provides an excellent background for all musicians interested in the steelband movement in the United States, and it should be an essential study for all serious disciples of the steelpan worldwide.--Eugene D. Novotney, Humboldt State University Dr. Haskett's book is an informative and engaging investigation of the steel band idiom in the United States, from the first pioneering individuals who brought pan to American shores in the 1950s, to the present-day educators and practitioners who are sustaining the art form. Readers are treated to a rich examination of the history of pan in the U.S., allowing them to fully appreciate where we stand today. In presenting this history through detailed narratives, Dr. Haskett reveals the challenges inherent in bringing a steel band to life, many of which remain with us. Ultimately, Dr. Haskett has laid important groundwork here, setting the stage for steel band educators in the United States to first understand, and then to confront these challenges. Those who are dedicated to advancing the steel band art form in the U.S. should begin their work by reading this important book.--Chris Tanner, Miami University About the Author Brandon L. Haskett is associate professor of music at Saginaw Valley State University.