Polyrhythm in batucada
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create samba polyrhythms.
Key learning points
- Samba is a type of Brazilian dance and music which comes in many forms, one of which is batucada.
- Batucada is often played at celebrations and carnival, and is performed by a percussion ensemble called a bateria.
- The instruments include surdo, caixa, agogo bells, repinique, tamborim and ganzá.
- These instruments all play different rhythms, which combine to create a polyrhythm.
Keywords
Polyrhythm - when many different rhythms play at the same time they create a polyrhythm
Samba - samba is a style of energetic Brazilian dance, or the music that accompanies it
Batucada - batucada is a type of fast-paced samba music performed by a percussion ensemble (bateria)
Surdo - a surdo is a type of bass drum used in batucada
Caixa - a caixa is a type of snare drum used in a batucada
Common misconception
All of the parts are necessary to make the project work.
Ideally pupils will record in all of the parts of the batucada, but the project will still work successfully with the core ensemble of surdo, caixa and repinique.
Teacher tip
For the more complex rhythms, consider practising clapping them as a class together before recording. The improvised rhythm is an opportunity for students to be creative and build in their own rhythms. Encourage them to experiment with percussion sounds, ensuring they blend well with the ensemble.
Equipment
A DAW or other suitable compositional tool or instrument
File needed for this lesson
Brazil template.band 278.58 KB (ZIP)
Download this file to use in the lesson.
Licence
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