| 68770 | Island Rhythms |
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| Donahoe, Erica |  Score
 mp3 audio
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| Category: String Orchestra |
| Grade: Medium Easy |
| Duration: 2:00 |
| Instrumentation: str=10.10(3).6.6.6,2 perc |
| Comments: Ed. Law. |
| Description: Island Rhythms is meant to embody the easy feel of a day at the beach, happily soaking in the Caribbean sunshine! Caribbean music encompasses a large geographic area of over 7000 islands, and therefore many distinct styles, such as calypso, reggae, merengue and more. Islands developed their own unique cultures over time, however many of these styles are a fusion of West African traditions and tribal music, along with European influences. Island Rhythms uses rhythmic syncopations, percussion, and harmonies that evoke the feel of some of these traditions. The happy and carefree opening theme takes a brief turn through the parallel minor partway through the piece—perhaps a tropical storm or shark infested waters! We return to major soon enough and back to our carefree day. Encourage students to emphasize the syncopations and rhythms that create this distinct sound, or maybe try their hand at one of the percussion parts! |