Title of Piece: Unknown
Performers: Maasai men
Culture or Origin: Maasai people of Kenya and northern Tanzania
Orchestration: Human voice, some body percussion
This piece is a good example of the call-and-response tradition of African music. The leader sings out a melodic phrase and the rest of the people respond in turn. The context of these pieces often relates directly to the structure. In the Maasai culture, children use call-and-response as learning songs, women often sing of their homes and children, and men will sing of their strength and even of political candidates! This particular video and recording is from a charity called A Voice is Heard which offers aid to developing countries. It is possible to hear the harmony that is included by the "response" men, especially towards the end of the recording. The piece keeps a steady pulse, most likely comparable to 4/4 time with 2 bar phrases (perhaps 2/4 with 4 bar phrases) due to the structure of the snapping and clapping.
The call and response tradition can be found in many cultures, it would be interesting to know where it originated. It seems like a pretty easy way to learn songs especially if you do not have a written language. I was surprised to learn that men would use this form to sing about political candidates, I guess it could be like a rally cry. I love the video but I wonder if some of these call and response songs have a particular dance associated with them. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful depiction of call and response in the African culture as well as a beautiful visual of communty and ceremonial customs. Even in just watching the initial moments of the video, you can tell that the song is more than just a melody for the people, but an avenue of communication for what is happening deep in the soul. Though pitches are obviously attached to the words of the song, like the recitation of the Quran, it can almost be viewed as a verbal experience than a musical one. My students would love this video! Approximately 75% of my students are native Africans, either born and raised there or born in American and still raised in strong African-cultured driven households. In any event, i'm quite positive that this video would spark interest and nostalgia in all of them!
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