Calypso and Steel Band AOS

Question 1

where does Calypso come from

Answer 1

-origionally the traditional dance of trinidad and tobago

Question 2

what is it used for

Answer 2

-carnival

Question 3

describe the harmony and tonality

Answer 3

-added note chords
-harmonic rhythm on steel pan is slow : can last whole bar
primary triads and major tonality

Question 4

name some characteristics typical of this style

Answer 4

• 4/4 metre
• uses syncopation - both melody line and chords often performed off-beat
• memorable melodies

Question 5

describe the dynamics

Answer 5

very loud - fortissimo (for large crowds)

Question 6

describe the expression and articulation

Answer 6

• steel pans are played with beaters with a rubber stick/beater
• long duration are played by rolling giving tremolo effect

Question 7

describe the pitch and melody

Answer 7

• improvisation based on pre-existing folk melody

- add ornaments to decorate melody

Question 8

describe the texture

Answer 8

• mainly homophonic

- chord riffs create textural layers (thickens)

Question 9

describe the form structure and phrasing

Answer 9

• call and response
• improvised phrasing
• popular song form

Question 10

musical characteristics of the folk music

Answer 10

• african music influences

- includes syncopation, cross rhythms, percussion, call and response

Question 11

Describe how modern technology influenced Calypso

Answer 11

• Harry Belafonte recorded a “calypso album” in 1956 bringing calypso worldwide
• used in the little mermaid in film music

Question 12

Name a suitable artist

Answer 12

David Rudder, Mighty sparrow, Harry Belafonte

Question 13

Name some instruments in calypso

Answer 13

• steel band- claves, maracas, agogo bells, congas, guiro

- also bass guitars, saxophones, vocals, latin percussion, acoustic guitar

Question 14

describe the timbre

Answer 14

warm and metallic