Sub-Saharan African music traditions
Sub-Saharan African music traditions refer to the different kinds of music that are played in the countries located south of the Sahara desert in Africa.
Just like how you have favorite songs or sing rhymes, people in Africa have their own songs and rhymes that they like to dance or sing to. But their music is different from the music you may be used to hearing because they use different types of instruments and rhythms.
One of the most popular instruments used in sub-Saharan African music is the drum. Drums are made out of different materials, like wood, animal skin, or metal, and they are played by hitting them with your hands or sticks. Some drum rhythms are used to communicate a message, like when you tap on a table to get someone's attention. Other rhythms are used to accompany dancing or singing.
In addition to drums, other musical instruments include the mbira, which is a metal instrument with different sized keys that you play by plucking with your thumbs. Another popular instrument is the balafon, which is made out of wooden bars that you strike with mallets to create a sound.
Sub-Saharan African music is also known for its intricate rhythms and polyrhythms. This means that instead of just one beat, you hear multiple beats happening at the same time. It's like when you try to clap your hands and stomp your feet at the same time; it's a little tricky but it sounds really cool when you get it right!
Overall, sub-Saharan African music traditions are rich and diverse, with unique instrumental and vocal styles that have been passed down through many generations.
Just like how you have favorite songs or sing rhymes, people in Africa have their own songs and rhymes that they like to dance or sing to. But their music is different from the music you may be used to hearing because they use different types of instruments and rhythms.
One of the most popular instruments used in sub-Saharan African music is the drum. Drums are made out of different materials, like wood, animal skin, or metal, and they are played by hitting them with your hands or sticks. Some drum rhythms are used to communicate a message, like when you tap on a table to get someone's attention. Other rhythms are used to accompany dancing or singing.
In addition to drums, other musical instruments include the mbira, which is a metal instrument with different sized keys that you play by plucking with your thumbs. Another popular instrument is the balafon, which is made out of wooden bars that you strike with mallets to create a sound.
Sub-Saharan African music is also known for its intricate rhythms and polyrhythms. This means that instead of just one beat, you hear multiple beats happening at the same time. It's like when you try to clap your hands and stomp your feet at the same time; it's a little tricky but it sounds really cool when you get it right!
Overall, sub-Saharan African music traditions are rich and diverse, with unique instrumental and vocal styles that have been passed down through many generations.