AoS3 Calypso

Question 1

Calypso Music

Answer 1

Calypso is a style of Afro-Caribbean music that originated in Trinidad and Tobago during the early to mid-19th century.

The music feature Steel Pans and syncopated rhythms.

Question 2

Venue & Occasion

Answer 2

Carnivals, street parties, festivals and dancing.

Question 3

Origin

Answer 3

Sugar plantation slaves in Trinidad

Question 4

Steel Pans

Answer 4

Tuned percussion instruments made from oil drums.

The timbre can be described as Metallic, Bright and Warm.

The tenor or Ping Pong pan plays the melody.

Question 5

Other Instruments

Answer 5

banjo, guitar, mouth organ, bongos, congas, claves, maracas, drum kit.

Question 6

Rhythmic features

Answer 6

4/4 time, syncopation, polyrhythms, cross rhythms.

Question 7

Calypso Tonality

Answer 7

Major key, Stepwise melody.

Question 8

Calypso Structure

Answer 8

Verse & chorus.

Question 9

Texture

Answer 9

Melody & Accompaniment.

Question 10

1/ This musical extract is taken from a piece of Calypso Music. From your knowledge of this style of music, identify six features which are typical of this style.

2/ Where does this music originate?

Answer 10

1/ Typical features include:

i// Major Tonality

ii/ Steel pans playing the melody.

iii/ A drum kit and other percussion.

iv/ Syncopated rhythms.

v/ 4/4 time signature.

2/ Trinidad