Who are we?  

• We are auditioned performing ensembles using Caribbean Steel drums, drum set, electric bass, occasionally metallophones and unpitched percussion. 

• Auditions are at the end of  the 3rd grade year only to prepare for the 4th grade year. Steel Drums at this time is only for 4th and 5th graders and is a two year program. 

• We have a 4th grade ensemble and a 5th grade ensemble. They do completely different music but perform at the same events. 

• We are housed at Manitas Innovation Academy in Tempe, Arizona

• We have the youngest students in a touring Steel drum band that we know of in all of Phoenix metro and possibly the entire state.   

• We are the only Steel drum group in Kyrene district.  

• We have been in existence for 12 years.  

• We have been in the newspaper 3 times and on Channel 12 TV once in the last 11 years. 

• Lisa Sellers is the arranger, director and founder of this group.  She is the music teacher at Manitas. You can read more about her here:   https://sites.google.com/kyrene.org/mrssellersmusicclass/about-the-teacher 

• These ensembles give 10-15 ish performances in a year. 

• Most performances are at Manitas,... but it is possible we might have one "away" performance per month especially 2nd semester. 

• Students are taught performing skills, musicianship, character skills and leadership skills. 

• Students must sign an Accountability Contract with all teachers, parents and administrators

• All students must sign a photo waiver because many people think we are awesome and want to take our picture. 

• All students who are a part of Manitas Steel D.R.U.M ensembles register each year with Community Ed to be a member.  Tuition to be in this program is $200.  There are some scholarships on a first come first serve basis through Community Ed. 

• NOTE: Middle School age students have " electives" which are not auditioned, have no tuition and are open to all middle school age students.  Manitas middle school students perform ONLY at Manitas. 

What Steel D.R.U.M. means: 

Steel= We are strong like steel and don’t give up. 

D= Discipline-We are self-disciplined in behavior and school work.   Do what you are supposed to do • Plan ahead • Always do your best • Use self-control • Think before you act — consider the consequences • Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes • Set a good example for others

R=Respect- People with self-respect and respect for others make good decisions.  They treat others the way they want to be treated….even when no one is watching. Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal — stand by your family, friends, and country. Obey laws and rules• Respect authority• Be a good neighbor• Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need.

U=Unity-We work together as a team.  Say “we” not “I”. Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly • Treat all people fairly Be kind • Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate 

M=Manitas Music!  We learn all these things through our mastery in music!