The California State University Northridge Steel Drum Ensemble, under the direction of "Gee" Rabe, is currently a 13-piece group, consisting of entirely steel drums and drumset. The group performs many styles of music, including calypso, reggae, Latin, and classical. During the first class meeting, the students lean about the history and facts about the steel drum. After the introduction, the students learn their instruments rapidly by practicing scales and sightreading. They will learn easier songs at first and then progress to more difficult ones. They also have opportunities to learn improvisation and arrange music for steel band. The group performs in concert at least once a semester and is open to all majors and anyone in the community who would like to take the course. French horn-flute duets are examples of the great variety of participating groups.