With the vision of  Dr. Gladys Whitworth Bray, the East of the River Steelband was founded in 1993  to bring this unique, cultural, and musical experience to youth living east of the Anacostia River. Over the years, the program has provided music training and arts and cultural education to hundreds of children and youth through its core steel pan and youth development programs.

In addition to music instruction, the steel pan family combats negative influences by reinforcing life skills, exposing youth to new experiences, fostering greater awareness of their historic and cultural heritage, and sharpening their performance skills.

From their close-knit circle, the EORSB Steelband has grown from a youth activity to a musical family bonded by dedication and cultural connectivity. The group encourages and supports members in academic studies, other extra-curricular activities, and friendship.