Also broadcast Oct. 19
Making music from an object once used as a signal among gangs in Trinidad may seem like an odd hobby for the family of a Brigham Young University music professor, but for the Brough family that is exactly the case.
Ron Brough, his wife Ralene and three of their children make up PanJam, a percussion group whose sound includes modified oil drums or “pans.” They have performed in a variety of settings, from intimate gatherings to a concert at the Conference Center with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
On Monday, Oct. 3, at 9 p.m., BYU Television presents "PanJam: Brough Family Steel Band," a special broadcast showcasing both the family’s musical talent and the many ways music can have power in our lives. For the Broughs, this power is what prompted a filial foray into steel drumming. The program will also air Wednesday, Oct. 19, at 3 p.m.
According to Ron, the family got involved in steel drums for several reasons. “One, we kept getting calls for performances and engagements during the months when BYU students are gone for the summer,” he said. “Two, my wife and family were tired of me being gone all of the time doing freelance work with other musicians, on top of my busy schedule at BYU. Three, we thought it would be a great family activity, and four, we thought it might be a way for our children to earn money and save for their missions or college expenses.”
“We have been very fortunate to have it all work out and have enjoyed many years of a variety of performance experiences together,” he said.
These family experiences give the Broughs a unique opportunity to share their talents. “We have four children,” Brother Brough said. “Currently only three of them play in the band.”
Robyn, 17, plays lead or tenor pan; Roger, 19, plays triple guitar pans; Regan, 23, performs on electric bass; Ralene Brough performs on the double second pans; and Ron Brough performs on drum set.
Join BYU Television for PanJam and experience the power of this unique musical experience. The program was sponsored by the Geraldine Swenson Watkins Endowment which, according to producer/director Steve Lowe, “thought that [PanJam’s] performance was noteworthy and that the message they presented was in line with what the foundation is trying to accomplish: to encourage the use of music to strengthen families and homes.”
For additional information on BYU Television and its programs, please visit www.byutv.org.
