African Music

African Music

Overview of African Music

• Originated in Sub-Saharan Africa and commonly incorporated singing, drumming, and dancing.
• Call and response form is often used, where a lead singer or instrumentalist introduces a line of melody and then a group responds.
• Employs the use of capture patterns or bell patterns, a cyclical pattern that guides the timing and organisation of the song.

Instruments

• Percussion instruments such as the djembe, dundun, and balafon are commonly used.
• String instruments like the Kora and Ngoni are emblematic of West African music.
• The Mbira, or thumb piano, is a significant instrument in East and Southern African music.

Musical Elements

• Polymeter is prevalent, where multiple rhythmic layers are used simultaneously.
• The concept of ostinato, a repeating rhythmic or melodic pattern, is often applied.
• Complex polyrhythm is characteristic of African music, making use of two or more rhythms at the same time.

Vocal Techniques

• African music frequently utilises group vocal techniques, including group unison singing.
• It also features pitch bending and the use of a wide vocal range.

Sociocultural Factors

• African music is often interwoven with activities of daily life, rituals, and social functions.
• Importance of community participation - music is often performed in groups with audience participation in singing, clapping, or dancing.
• Communication of history, values, and social messages is a key role of African music in society.