Made by professional pan makers in Trinidad and Tobago--the birthplace of the instrument--this is the authentic 1/3-sized steel drum that introduces children to the tradition of Calypso. Originating around 1935 when steel "pans" were created from discarded 55-gallon oil drums, the instrument is now synonymous with the island's annual Carnival celebration. This all-steel instrument is flame-tempered and hand-hammered to create the unique, dipped contour of the pan and the raised sections that form the notes. Technically a concussion idiophone, this diatonic model is Strobe-tuned to C-major, allowing young "panners" to play classics such as Oh Susannah! and When The Saints Go Marching In and Calypso standards This Feelin' Nice and Mrs. Walker using the included eight-song songbook. The drum is mounted to a wood platform that allows each note to resonate. Includes two rubber-tipped mallets. Ages 8 and up. 10" H x 13" W x 10" D. (2 lbs.)