Music and Us: Our New Playlist

Music is a universal language that varies from border to border, and brings people together from all parts of the world. each culture has its unique music traditions, instruments, and styles that reflect its history, values, and way of life Exploring these different cultures of music allows us to not only expand our listening experiences, but allows one to create a sense of appreciation for different customs and cultures around the world.

    First we will visit Brazil, where Brazilian Samba music continues to grow in popularity day-by-day. Brazilian Samba is a unique form of music  that originated from Rio de Janeiro and is a widely known musical ritual in Brazil. This style of music is often accompanied by an expressive dance.The roots of this type of music/dance trace back to African dances and rhythms introduced by slaves. Brazilian samba is known for its rapid rhythmic steps, and energetic motions from the dancers made to fast paced beats. Brazilian sambas’ are percussion-driven and instruments such as a pandering (tambourine), and surdo (drum) play a huge role in the produced sounds. I chose to include this form of music because the costumes and dance were eye-catching, and as we learned of the Native American Regalia, Brazilian samba costumes are just as extravagant and colorful. Their costumes often consist of colorful feathers and depict cultural representation, and empowerment. Ultimately Brazilian Samba music and dance is an integral part of Brazilian culture and has become a symbol of cultural celebration. 

Next off the southeastern coast of Africa lies the island Madagascar where traditional music depends on location. In the Northern part of the island, people often dance to the rhythm of “Salegy”. Salegy has grown to become one of the most popular forms of music in Madagascar, and is characterized by its’ complex rhythm, and intense guitar work. The electric guitar plays a key role in Salegy and has become a way to add a modern touch to traditional sounds. The addition of these modern sounds expanded the sound and community of Salegy all while continuing to honor the traditional roots.  I chose to include this style of music because it reminded me of our African music unit which was one of my favorites. Salegys’ are typically include call-and-response vocals just as African musical traditions and is also used to celebrate, tell stories, and bring people together. 

On to France! French traditional musical reflect the diverse cultural history of the country and has evolved  greatly throughout time. The capital of France, Paris is known for its musette music. Musette is defined by its prominent use of the accordion and its lively upbeat sound. Musette music originated in the work-class neighborhoods of Paris and quickly became a way the people could use music to escape from reality. Musette music is mostly known for its playing in dance halls and cafes of Paris, the music provided a great background for dancing and socializing. I chose this genre of music because I remember growing up being in French class, and during the tests my teacher would always play “French Cafe Music”. The lively rhythm and melodies would always catch my attention as it reminded me heavily of jazz music

Lastly we will visit the Caribbean! Calypso music is a widely known genre that originated in Trinidad and Tobago. This genre of music is all about the history and Culture of the Caribbean people, as they used music to express their experiences and struggles. Calypso music has been traced back to African Slaves that were brought to the Caribbean by Europeans. This form of music was the slave's way of communication and is structured as a call-and-response. A major component of Calypso music would have to be the lyrics. These songs often address social and political issues and has reflected historical resistance. Traditional Calypso music includes instruments such as a steel pan, guita, and percussion instruments. These instruments all together help form the complex rhythm and sound of Calypso music. I chose to include this genre because of the lively vibe I got from listening to just one song. The rhythms are super catchy, and overall the genre just has a lot of depth to it. The combination of African and European traditions have ultimately created the vibrant sound of Calypso music to display the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean.