African Drumming Flashcards
(15 cards)
Where in Africa does the exam focus on for African Drumming?
Sub-Saharan Africa
What is the single headed, goblet drum called in African Drumming?
The Djembe
What three sounds are made on the Djembe?
Bass, tone and slap
What is the large, double headed drum that is played with a stick called in African Drumming?
Dundun
What is often found on the dundun drum?
A bell like instrument
What is the main bell instrument called in African Drumming?
Agogo bells
How many sounds can the agogo bell produce?
2 - one high and one low
What instrument often does the master (virtuosic) drummer play in African Drumming?
The talking drum
Define polyrhythm
The combining of several different rhythms played on different instruments
What is the difference between a polyrhythm and a cross rhythm?
A cross rhythm is a more complex form of a polyrhythm, often containing rhythms with different pulses.
________________ is where the person plays, and the rest of the performers copy
Call and response
What is the structure of African drumming?
There is no strict structure, the master drummer leads the performance, often playing a core rhythms in which the other rhythms fit.
Describe tonality in African drumming
Percussion dominated so it is often atonal with little harmony
Describe the tempo and metre of African Drumming
Fast with a strong pulse divided into groups of 3 or 4.
Suitable venue for African Drumming
Weddings, funerals and festivals, but also commonly during every day activities.
