African Drumming

Cards (23)

  • What are used to organize music in African drumming?
    Repetition and cyclic rhythms
  • What is an ostinato in music?
    A repeated rhythm pattern
  • How does a master drummer contribute to a performance?
    By giving musical cues to change rhythms
  • What is the role of syncopation in African music?
    To create rhythmic interest
  • What is the typical number of pitches in African melodies?
    Four to seven pitches
  • How is pitch determined in African drumming?
    By the tuning of the drums
  • What is the basic form of African vocal music?
    Choral singing known as call and response
  • What is a common vocal technique used by African singers?
    Singing in thirds, fourths, or fifths
  • What is the purpose of vocables in African singing?
    To express emotions through sounds
  • What is the term for singing without instrumental accompaniment?
    A cappella
  • How does the master drummer enhance his solo performance?
    By using accents and a demanding style
  • How many players typically make up a West African drum ensemble?
    3-5 players
  • What type of texture is created by interlocking rhythms in drum ensembles?
    A thick and complex polyphonic texture
  • What are the dynamics of African drumming typically like?
    Loud or very loud
  • What does the master drummer control during a performance?
    The tempo and rhythm changes
  • What is the purpose of accelerando in African drumming?
    To speed up the tempo
  • How does the structure of African drumming pieces vary?
    It depends on the master drummer
  • How is African drumming traditionally passed down?
    Via oral tradition
  • What is the cultural context of African drumming?
    It is performed at celebrations and gatherings
  • What traditional drums are popular in African music?
    Djembe, talking drum, and dundun
  • How has modern technology impacted traditional African music?
    It allows high-quality recordings
  • What are some typical instruments used in African music?
    Dundun, djembe, and maracas
  • What remains a key feature of African drumming?
    Rhythm