Calypso and steel band

• What is the national dance of Trinidad and Tobago?

  Calypso
• Where did Steel Bands originate?

  Trinidad and Tobago
• What are the two main musical influences in Caribbean music?

  • African musical influences: Syncopation, Cross-rhythms, Percussion, Call and Response
  • European musical influences: Tonal harmonies, Melodies, Instruments
• What is the harmonic rhythm of Steel Pan music?

  The harmonic rhythm is slow, with a single chord often lasting an entire bar.
• What time signature is Calypso music typically in?

  4/4 metre
• How does Calypso music typically combine rhythms?

  Calypso often uses syncopation and three-beat rhythms with two long beats followed by a short beat.
• What is a common ending for a Calypso rhythm?

  Perfect cadences
• What role does the bass pan play in Steel Pan music?

  The bass pan plays the root of the chord.
• What is the texture of Steel Pan music?

  Steel Pan music is mainly homophonic, featuring melody and accompaniment.
• What are the dynamics of Calypso and Steel Pan music during performances?

  • Generally very loud (fortissimo)
  • Designed for outdoor performances and large audiences
• How are steel pans typically played?

  Steel pans are played with sticks/beaters with rubber tips.
• What effect is produced by rolling notes on steel pans?

  Rolling produces a tremolo effect, creating a shimmering sound.
• What is the typical form and structure of Calypso music?

  • Often uses call and response
  • Regular phrases (e.g., 4 or 8-bar)
  • Songs are normally in popular song form
• Who recorded a "Calypso Album" in 1956 that sold over a million copies?

  Harry Belafonte
• How has Calypso music been used in modern media?

  Calypso has been featured in modern-day films, such as "Under the Sea" from 'The Little Mermaid'.
• What are some typical instruments used in Calypso music?

  • Acoustic and Bass Guitars
  • Trumpets
  • Saxophones
  • Electric Guitars
  • Drum Kit
  • Vocals
  • Latin Percussion
• What are the names of the Steel Pans in descending pitch order?

  Soprano, Double Alto, Single Alto, Cello, Bass
• What part does the Soprano Steel Pan typically play in the band?

  The Soprano Steel Pan usually plays the melody.
• What is the role of the Cello or Guitar Pan in the band?

  The Cello or Guitar Pan plays chords, melody, or bass.
• What are some percussion instruments used in Calypso music?

  • Bongos
  • Claves
  • Maracas
  • Reco-reco
  • Cabasa (or Quiró)
  • Agogo bells
• How were Steel Drums discovered?

  Steel Drums were discovered by hitting a dented section of an oil barrel.
• What is the significance of the oil drums in the creation of Steel Pans?

  Oil drums were turned into musical instruments after being left over from World War II.
• How do the roles of different Steel Pans contribute to the overall sound of the band?

  Each Steel Pan plays a specific role, such as melody, harmony, or bass, contributing to a rich texture.