Calypso Grooves with RASPO

Originating from Trinidad and Tobago, calypso’s joyful cadence and syncopated beats are now in your hands.

Join us for a hands-on session and learn the fundamental rhythms of calypso to play like a full-scale steel orchestra – from the first beat to the final melody.

Led by RASPO’s founder Mary Genis and composer and arranger Paul Jr Watson, alongside members of the RASPO Steel Orchestra, the session is a chance to learn, listen and build a band together.

For all levels, beginners and experienced players alike.

RASPO is well established as Reading’s premier steel orchestra and welcomes all age groups. The name – Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra – commemorates the very first steel band to play in the UK at the 1951 Festival of Britain: TASPO (Trinidad All Steel Percussion Orchestra). RASPO has performed at The Royal Albert Hall, WOMAD festival, Glastonbury, for the London 2012 Olympics, live on BBC and ITV, and annually at London’s Notting Hill Carnival.