About this app

PETE the Panstick (PETE), an indigenous animated Steelpan instructor, is a registered trade mark of Sanch Electronix. The software application facilitates tactile self-instruction for enthusiasts and expedites cost-effective delivery of Steelpan education in blended classroom environments. PETE also supports social entrepreneurship initiatives such as online mentorship and personalised tuition.

PETE is the ultimate student’s companion who transitions seamlessly from classroom to ‘Panyard,’ abode of the Steelpan. He is, therefore, a natural conduit for showcasing the indigenous cultural rhythms of Trinidad and Tobago to the Caribbean, Diaspora and wider international community.
Using Information and Communications Technology, PETE introduces beginners to the fundamentals of Music and English Literacy along with interesting historical and Steelpan phenomena.

This interactive self-instructional software is innovative, exciting and user-driven with no predetermined sequencing. Thus random navigation is facilitated through the application, allowing one to peruse the contents in a leisurely manner, in concert with one’s level of receptivity.
PETE has been trained to dance, ‘wine’ like a ‘Fancy Sailor,’ wave a flag and clap his hands. Naturally, he is adept on the Steelpan and other percussion instruments such as the ‘iron’ and ‘cowbell.’
Imagine the joy of ‘liming’ with PETE for hours on end in a relaxed, fun-filled atmosphere that is absolutely conducive to learning with a guarantee of positive, tangible outcomes and user satisfaction.
One is encouraged to learn to play simple Rhymes and Folk Songs before proceeding incrementally to tackle increasingly difficult melodies.
One travels with PETE, chapter by chapter beginning with the Tenor Steelpan, via an illustrated layout of its notes, narration of the range of its compass and animation of twenty-four Major and Harmonic Minor scales.

One may be assessed through a specially designed Quiz to ensure that one has discovered, experienced and assimilated many aspects of this revolutionary instrument and its fascinating history.
PETE also presents the world of Virtuoso Pan Musicians and steel orchestras playing excerpts from some of their famous ‘Panorama’ Arrangements, recorded in situ.
Short films illustrate how the Steelpan is made and trace its evolution, while copious notes and other relevant information are included in PDF files to complete one’s learning experience.
Finally, it’s time for one to take a break. And what better way for relaxation than by listening to different genres of Steelpan music and perusing some of PETE’S colourful, informative posters before he returns to his intriguing world of animation…
SLS 01.09.16