The program was created by G. Allan O’Connor, and has continued its development under the direction of Liam Teague: Presidential Research, Scholarship and Artistry Professor, Professor of Music and Head of Steelband Studies.
Steelpan majors receive one-on-one instruction from Professor Teague, and also have the opportunity to learn the basic principles of steelpan building and tuning from Ms. Yuko Asada: Music Instrument Technician and an alumnus of the NIU steelpan program.
Additionally, majors are required to participate in the steelpan studio and perform in the celebrated NIU Steelband. Each academic year, the NIU Steelband performs at a number of on and off campus concerts in a variety of settings.