The Lead
Doubled Second Pans
Register: Alto
Musical Function: Melody, Countermelody, Harmony
Configuration: Synchronized whole tone, F
The
Double Second is the instrument of choice for many of the great pan soloists. The two and
one half octave range provides plenty of register to play chords, counter melodies and
melodies. They are proud of the design, tonal quality and playability of the double second pans.
Both the left and right drums of the synchronized double seconds have the same pitch
relationship, which affords logical playability and superior tuning consistency.
Register: Tenor
Nearly every major steelband in Trinidad has adopted the
four cello in recent years and replaced the older triple cello design. The nature of the 3 drum design has always posed many difficulties relative to chromatic passages. The four cello design is based on augmented chords and is a close relative to the double second. Notice that all of the same pitches on the left side of your double seconds are now on the left side of the four cello. The same concept applies to the pitches on the right drums. The synchronized four cello offers increased playability, increased range and an awesome tonal quality.
Register: Bass
Antique Percussion Instruments
Percussion Instruments of Asia
Percussion Instruments of Africa
Four Cello
Musical Function: Low Harmony & Melody, Reinforce Bass
Configuration: Synchronized Augmented Chords from B
Six Bass
Musical Function: Bass Lines, Bottom Chord Tones
Configuration: Synchronized 4ths & 5ths from C