The elements of music to consider
Melody
Melodies can be created by using instruments that are capable of combining pitchThe frequency of a sound. Sounds with a high pitch have a high frequency. and rhythm. Be aware of these identifying features found in sambaHighly syncopated, lively Brazilian dance. music:
- vocals or brass instruments are added to provide a melody although samba music is usually played on percussion instruments
- the agogo bell features a high and a low pitch
- a range of drums are used in a ensemble, which create a range of sounds and pitches
Rhythm, metre and tempo
The metreRegular pattern of beats and is indicated by a time signature. is given by the time signatureNumbers or letters written at the start of a piece of music depicting how many beats are in a bar and what type of beat are in each bar. usually found at the beginning of a score and so too can the tempoThe speed that the music is played at. marking. Bear in mind:
- cross-rhythm An effect created when two or more conflicting rhythms are heard at the same time. Eg one may be in simple time and another in triple time. are created when two parts with different rhythms combine
- metres are usually 2/4 or 4/4
- samba music has a fast and energetic tempo
Structure
Consider the following points if referring to the structure:
- there is no set written structure as an ensemble is often led by a band leader who signals when to change sections
- phrases are performed with call and responseWhere one melody is answered by another., ie the band copy the rhythms played by the leader
- solo percussion sections can be included to break up and extend a song
Instrumentation and timbre
Percussion instruments include:
- repinique A double headed Brazilian drum, often used in samba music.
- caxia
- agogo
- surdo
- tamborim
- ganza
- sometimes vocals and brass instruments are added to the group
Samba music uses untuned percussionA percussion instrument that cannot produce a definitive pitch. instruments and therefore harmonyThe arrangement of two or more pitches sounding together to create chords. is difficult to achieve.
Texture and dynamics
Both the textures and dynamics in samba music are two elements that make the style of traditional music to identifiable. Consider that:
- polyrhythmConflicting rhythms being played at the same time. texture is when all parts are playing different rhythms layered on top of each other
- monophonicA texture consisting of a solo musical line. texture is when the repinque plays a solo or the call section of call and response
- samba music is very loud as it needs to be heard outside by thousands of people. The dynamic changes are signalled by the leader using the apitoWhistle played by the leader of a samba band.