It all started in Trinidad, after World War II and quickly swept through he West Indies. Using fifty gallon oil drums, a sledge hammer, a good ear and patience for harmonics and overtones, young musicians stretched the metal with a hammer and then listened to the new notes.  Too low?  Pound it on the bottom side.  Too high?  Hit it again from the top.  Creating steel drums for a steel band is an art in itself. 

In 1984 the steel drum found its way to this part of the world.  Trinidadian master craftsman, Ellie Mannette, built a set of steel "pans" for percussionist Michael Bento. After studying, teaching and performing steel drum music throughout the Northwest and the United States, Michael met other Seattle pan players and in 1991 the steel band, ISLAND TIME was formed.

Over the years, this six member group has created a unique, distinct sound, sharing their music and creating an atmosphere of celebration for special events throughout the Northwest.  Their performances have included backyard parties to corporate events, weddings to formal concerts.  Their music spans a wide range -- from contemporary American pop to authentic Caribbean calypso and Brazilian samba to African percussion.  In 1995, the recorded its first CD entitled, Carnival's Bells.