The University of Mary Steel Drum Band is one of North Dakota's most unique and colorful performing groups. The UMSDB has performed with a significant number of artists including Andy Narell, Alex Acuna, Mat Britain, Ruben Alvarez, Darren Dyke, Tom Miller, and Jerry Steinholtz. In addition, the group has performed in concert with the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra and has been on Prairie Public Television. Their first recording was released in 2001.
Specializing in the SOCA 
and Calypso rhythms heard in Caribbean music, the UMSDB performs on a variety of pans (steel drums) and ethnic percussion instruments which comprise the "Engine Room" - conga drums, drum set, shekere, djembe, and several brake drums.
The University of Mary Steel Drum Band is directed by Scott Prebys, associate professor of music at the University of Mary. Scott is a multi-instrumentalist who frequently performs on marimba, vibraphone, mallet KAT, steel pan(s), drum set, and other percussions. He is a clinician for Ludwig/Musser drums and mallet instruments. In addition, Scott endorses Mike Balter mallets, and Pro-Mark drum sticks.
Panorama VIII 2008
Weekend in Paradise will take place on Friday, Nov. 7 and Saturday, Nov. 8 at the Belle Mehus City Auditorium at 8 p.m. Our guest performer this year is the wonderful Alessandra Belloni, a remarkable performer. Often called a “Mediterranean Volcano," Belloni is a tambourine virtuoso, singer, dancer, and actress. You might have seen her in “Godfather II." In addition, the University of Mary Steel Band will provide their usual energetic program of Caribbean calypso. Tickets for this event are $12 and are available at Eckroth Music, Lee's Hallmark at Kirkwood Mall or the University of Mary Music Department.
"Time after time, they were given a rousing, standing ovation"
Jeff Alexander - KFYR AM radio
"The intensity of the group was smashing. moving as a body of sound alternately through hushed anticipatory passages into glorious rushing of music..."
Terry Aman - Bottineau Courant
"One of the most adept and entertaining group of young players I have had the pleasure of working with..."
Ruben Alvarez - Professional Percussionist
For more information contact:
Scott Prebys
7500 University Dr.
Bismarck, ND 58504
(701) 355-8167
sprebys@umary.edu
