Samba

• What is the typical length of an Ostinato in Samba music?

  Usually 4 or 8 beats long
• How do different groups of instruments contribute to the Ostinato in Samba music?

  They can have their own Ostinato with offbeat rhythms
• What are the two types of Son Clave syncopated rhythms used in Samba?

  2:3 and 3:2
• What does a Sambista need to know for each section of Samba music?

  An Ostinato for that section
• What often starts Samba music?

  An introduction featuring call and response
• What is the main Ostinato rhythm of Samba called?

  The Groove
• What are Breaks in Samba music?

  4 or 8 beat rhythms providing contrast
• What happens during Mid Sections in Samba music?

  One or two instruments change their rhythm
• What is the purpose of the Apito in Samba music?

  To signal changes to the group
• How can a piece of Samba end?

  With a call and response or a pre-rehearsed ending
• What is the typical texture of Samba music?

  Often monophonic or polyphonic
• What are cross-rhythms in Samba music?

  Two conflicting rhythmic patterns occurring simultaneously
• What is the typical dynamic level of Samba music?

  Very loud
• Why is Samba music designed to be loud?

  To perform outdoors at carnivals
• What is a crescendo used for in Samba music?

  For dramatic effect at the end
• What is the typical tempo of Samba music?

  Around 104 bpm
• What is the purpose of a constant tempo in Samba music?

  To assist dancers or processions
• What is rubato in the context of Samba music?

  Tiny fluctuations in tempo for expressiveness
• What is the primary basis of Samba music?

  Rhythms rather than melodies
• What cultural roots does Samba music have?

  Roots in Africa via the slave trade
• What is Samba a symbol of?

  Brazilian cultural expression and carnival
• How have Samba schools contributed to the culture?

  They bring people together through competition
• How have Portuguese colonies influenced Samba instruments?

  They imported slaves from Africa
• How has modern technology impacted Samba music?

  It has popularized Samba in ballroom dance shows
• What is "Sambass"?

  A fusion of Samba with Drum 'n' Bass
• Name a few typical instruments used in Samba music.

  Surdo, Repinique, Tamborim
• What are the main characteristics of Samba music?

  • Built around Ostinatos
  • Features call and response
  • Includes breaks and mid sections
  • Often loud and fast
  • Based on rhythms rather than melodies
• What are the dynamics, tempo, and texture characteristics of Samba music?

  • Dynamics: Very loud for outdoor performance
  • Tempo: Generally fast at around 104 bpm
  • Texture: Monophonic or polyphonic with cross-rhythms
• What is the cultural significance of Samba music?

  • Roots in African traditions
  • Symbol of Brazilian culture and carnival
  • Brings communities together through Samba schools
• What instruments are typically used in Samba music?

  • Surdo
  • Repinique
  • Tamborim
  • Chocolo
  • Reco-reco
  • Apito
  • Agogo bells
  • Caixa de guerro
  • Guiro
  • Timbales
  • Cuica
  • Congas
  • Claves
  • Cowbell