African Music

African Music

Two African Examples
In the two examples of African traditional music given to us to analyze there were several consistent features that characterize a broad range of techniques used in both African music and Western music that has roots tying back to Africa. The pieces themselves also have numerous qualities identifying unique trademarks attaching these songs to a certain political or spiritual agenda.
The first example opens with an initial percussive line. The rhythm section consists of some form of a shaker, a set of drums in varying sizes and pitches. The pulsation isn't usual by Western standards. It almost follows an upbeat syncopation and has a slight displaced feel to it. Another part is a very subtle accompaniment from a type of harp. This provides a quiet background outlining the rest of the melodic figures in the song. The vocal figures enter immediately with the percussion. It is reminiscent of chanting by the consistency of the rhythmic pulsation of various syllables and vocal identification. The vocal line is also rather monotone, or the range of the voice line is limited to say the least. The interest in the vocal melody is held within the style. The moderate tension has its own unique characteristic, and the rhythmic syncopation of his syllables along with the glissandi within the limited vocal range prove the distinction of the vocal style. The most prominent two aspects of this piece however also links back to some of the most fundamental ideas behind all traditional African music. One of these is the overwhelming use of a 'buzz' technique. It is obvious in the instrumental line, but also very evident in the vocal figures too. This buzzing tactic provides a very profound vibrato-like feel and gives the overall movement of the piece a continuous and flowing foreground and traditional sound. The second very prominent feature of this music is the extended use of complex and well structured interlocking. All the sounds brought forth by this...

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