Arrangements and Performance Tips. Why Latin Percussion? Because of our
connection with Latin music (mainly through the cultural exchange with countries
...
MENC NW 2011 - Recorders Go Latin - Kalani
Sponsored by Peripole-Bergerault
Incorporating Authentic Caribbean Rhythms into the Recorder Ensemble.
The Instruments Clave
Congas
Maracas
Bongos Cowbell
Why Latin Percussion? Because of our connection with Latin music (mainly through the cultural exchange with countries such as Cuba and others in the Caribbean), and because the instruments are readily available, Latin percussion is a great place to begin. Caribbean musical instruments (congas, bongos, maracas, guiro, cowbell, claves, etc.) are by far the most widely used in schools and the music industry, as compared to other families of hand percussion. They have been a part of our global music culture for at least 60 years and are found in venues of all types, played by both students and professionals. On a practical level, teachers may purchase, store and use the instruments without going to great lengths (or expense) to do so. Arrangements and Performance Tips • Start a performance with one element (drums, melody or chords), and then layer in the other parts. • Create an introduction “soundscape” that hints at the tune, then dive in after a musical cue. • Alternate between melody and drumming, or play/repeat portions of the melody to create a different section. • Harmonize, add or play melodies in cannon. • Insert a drumming “break down” section where a soloist plays over rhythmic ostinati. • Insert a “bridge” or transition section that is in another key, meter or dynamic level before ending the tune. • Insert a break and continue the tune at a faster tempo. (This tends to add energy and excitement.) • Create a solo section over the chords and feature a student on his/her preferred instrument (saxophone, trumpet, violin and trombone are all common in Latin music). • Add other instruments to the ensemble such as strings, wind, brass and additional percussion. • Insert a “get up and dance” section. Create gestures and/or movements to the rhythms and invite audience members to get involved. • Write your own lyrics and sing or rap to the music and rhythms. • Add props, costumes and visuals to spice up your performance. These might include traditional clothing and accessories, images from Caribbean countries and national flags. • Make or buy some “Caribbean” food items and have them available for your guests. Note: Substituting other types of drums for congas or bongos is not recommended. If at all possible, use wooden congas with natural heads (the same types of drums used by people in the Caribbean and professional percussionists around the world).
MENC NW 2011 - Recorders Go Latin - Kalani
Sponsored by Peripole-Bergerault
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MENC NW 2011 - Recorders Go Latin - Kalani
Sponsored by Peripole-Bergerault
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MENC NW 2011 - Recorders Go Latin - Kalani
Sponsored by Peripole-Bergerault
Performance Tips In my many years as a professional musician and performer, I have learned (as I imagine you have as well) that performing music for an audience involves much more than simply playing your instrument and hitting all the right notes. People who come to see a performance love it when they feel a personal connection to the musicians. Performers can help make that connection by: • moving in rhythm while they are playing. • making eye contact with the audience. • smiling! • rolling through mistakes (rather than making an “Oops!” face). • playing for (or to) someone in the audience. • having fun no matter what! Perhaps more so than any other instrument group, percussion instruments require large movements such as striking, scraping and shaking. By emphasizing these movements, percussionists can add a visual element to the performance that audience members will likely find interesting and exciting. Everyone loves to see musicians having fun. So, whatever happens, remind your students to show their fun and friendly side when making music together. What a blessing to bring the joy of music to people and have fun at the same time!
This session is based on the book and CD, Recorders in Rhythm by Kalani (Alfred Pub)
Six Inspiring Arrangements with a Latin Flair
Kalani
See these related titles by Kalani PLAY-ALONG/ VIDEO CD INCLUDED
- All About Congas - All About Bongos - All About Hand Percussion This session was made possible with generous support from:
FEATURES • • • •
Six popular Latin music styles Percussion arrangements Lead sheets with chords Play-along tracks & video examples
