25th Anniversary Gala

Participant musicians in the TASSO Steel Pan band reap a myriad of benefits beyond the joy and satisfaction of playing together as part of an internationally recognized youth music ensemble. They develop improved academic performance and social skills, self-esteem and self-discipline, along with time management and empathy through playing with others. Their focus is enhanced while pursuing self-expression and creativity through music. Their collective engagement and commitment reduces the risk of teen vagrancy, idleness, boredom and substance abuse, making their participation in music also a benefit to society. There’s increased emotional and cognitive development through the study, practice and as part of a band comprising a diverse group of young players.

TASSO regularly presents the best of Toronto’s youth at local, national, and international competitions, events, fundraisers, and celebrations. Events have included Toronto’s annual Santa Claus Parade, the Run to Conquer Cancer, the Raptors Championship Parade, the Cremona Summer Festival in Italy, among other world-class spectacles.

TASSO harnesses team effort and discipline to achieve its goals and dreams. Participants are directly involved in an organized activity that enhances Positive Youth Development. Academic research finds that involvement in an extra-curricular activity such as playing music as part of a band leads to enhanced educational attainment and college admission, civic engagement in adulthood, and socioeconomic mobility of children and youth in underserved communities.