Calypso

Question 1

Where does calypso originate from?

Answer 1

Trinidad and Tobago

Question 2

What are calypso lyrics based on?

Answer 2

They tell a story, or comment on society.

Question 3

What are the features of the melody of Calypso?

Answer 3

It includes call and response singing during the chorus.
The chorus consists of short, simple phrases.
The melodies are syncopated.
Some of the instrumental melodies have an improvised quality.

Question 4

What are the features of the tonality of calypso music?

Answer 4

The simple harmony uses primary chords.

The song is in a major key.

Question 5

What are the features of the structure of calypso music?

Answer 5

The structure consists of verses, choruses and instrumental sections.

Question 6

What are the features of the instruments (and timbre)

Answer 6

It has a solo vocal and backing vocals.

The vocalist combines singing with some spoken lyrics.

Question 7

What is the texture of calypso music?

Answer 7

Melody and accompaniment

Question 8

What are the features of the tempo/rhythm/metre in calypso music?

Answer 8

In 2/4 or 4/4
Syncopated
The shaker and guitar play almost constantly to provide a rhythm for the rest of the band to follow.
There are stops in the rhythm at the beginning of each verse.