Keon Cupid brings joy of steelpan to preschoolers

Mary Cuffy

In the vibrant landscape of Trinidad and Tobago, music transcends art; it embodies our cultural identity. Mr Keon Cupid, a passionate pannist with nearly 30 years of experience, recognises the power of music to shape young minds.

His journey into teaching steelpan to preschoolers was ignited by the curiosity sparked in his daughter during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When his daughter was in preschool and attending online classes, she encountered music in a transformative way. She quickly learned to play the national anthem on a digital (pan app) on his tablet, mastering it in just two days. This moment revealed the incredible potential of introducing young children to music, especially the steelpan, which is often overlooked in early childhood education.

Seeing a gap in the preschool community, Mr Cupid reached out and discovered that many steelpan tutors hesitate to work with younger children. Yet, he felt a calling to bridge that divide. Having nurtured children as a camp counsellor since he was 15, he knew he could make a profound difference.

In his classes, Mr Cupid combines the colours of the rainbow and the alphabet with rhythm and counting, creating a joyful and engaging learning environment.

His background in graphic design, enriched by a Digital Media Studies certificate from the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), inspired him to develop a colouring and activity book.

This resource not only aids in motor skill development but also strengthens the children’s hands, complementing the physical aspect of holding pan sticks.

The formative years are pivotal for children’s growth, and Mr Cupid is passionate about exposing them to music during this critical time. Research shows that early musical exposure can enhance cognitive abilities and improve language skills while fostering emotional development.

The steelpan, one of the easiest instruments to learn, serves as a perfect gateway for young children. He has witnessed how some of his preschool students, after graduating, continue their musical journey and embrace greater music literacy.

Working with children fills Mr Cupid with immense joy. Parents often commend his patience, a quality shaped by his own experiences as a father. He delights in watching the children recall their lessons each week, even with just one class. Their progress and enthusiasm drive him to continue this vital work.

Introducing preschoolers to the steelpan nurtures their musical talents and supports their overall development. By instilling a love for music at an early age, we help children build confidence, enhance creativity, and develop essential life skills.

Mr Cupid’s dedication to teaching steelpan exemplifies the profound impact that music can have on young lives, paving the way for a future filled with harmony and joy. Here are some of the graduates from the preschool programme.

Mary Cuffy is an educator and local children’s author. Ms Cuffy is the author of the Ladybug book series. Ms Cuffy believes the best investment we can make in children is in the early years. Email: [email protected] • IG: marycuffy • FB: mary cuffy/Lola and the Dancing Ladybug