Performing and composing ideas
A sambaHighly syncopated, lively Brazilian dance. music ensemble will employ the following devices and techniques to create an authentic samba performance. Each one can be transferred to other genres of music.
| In performance | In composing | |
| Polyrhythms | Use only percussion instruments. Each player should perform a different rhythm and then layer these together. Appoint a repinique player to signal changes in structure. | Use computer software to record a number of rhythmic ostinati. Try different combinations to create a polyrhythm. |
| Ensemble skills | In a rehearsal, the group should allocate a leader who can only use hand signals to inform all the players how to play the piece. Experiment with dynamics and articulation. | Write a number of two-bar rhythms that could be played by instruments of a samba band. Consider how to notate changes of section or dynamic without having a leader to conduct the performance. |
| Timbre choices | Think about how the different tones produced by a variety of drums can be used to create a multi-layered performance. Different drumming techniques can also provide variety in the timbre of the piece. | Try composing a piece for only drums. Create interest for the listener by using complex rhythms, silence and sections where all parts play in unison. |
| Polyrhythms | |
| In performance | Use only percussion instruments. Each player should perform a different rhythm and then layer these together. Appoint a repinique player to signal changes in structure. |
| In composing | Use computer software to record a number of rhythmic ostinati. Try different combinations to create a polyrhythm. |
| Ensemble skills | |
| In performance | In a rehearsal, the group should allocate a leader who can only use hand signals to inform all the players how to play the piece. Experiment with dynamics and articulation. |
| In composing | Write a number of two-bar rhythms that could be played by instruments of a samba band. Consider how to notate changes of section or dynamic without having a leader to conduct the performance. |
| Timbre choices | |
| In performance | Think about how the different tones produced by a variety of drums can be used to create a multi-layered performance. Different drumming techniques can also provide variety in the timbre of the piece. |
| In composing | Try composing a piece for only drums. Create interest for the listener by using complex rhythms, silence and sections where all parts play in unison. |