South African Music

The crowning instrument of South Africa is the ___.

• 
• 
• 
• 

Answer explanation

In the older days, they used gourds for the resonators. Nowadays, they use metal tubes.

Name elements that make up South African choral tradition.

• European choirs

• Tribes and clans

• Existing African songs

• Nature sounds

• Christian hymns

Answer explanation

Europe still carried a big influence into South Africa, weaving it into the powerful and moving songs that we can hear today.

When you overlap tones, such as octaves, on top of each other, you can get _____, which can amplify the volume of ensembles. (the answer is NOT "harmonics", but has another name)

Answer explanation

Tuning is a fundamental tool that South African choirs use to create the rich and powerful melodies that we recognize.

How should you rate popularity of the marimba?

• Nationwide

• Worldwide

• Statewide

• Citywide

Answer explanation

Marimba competitions are held every year in South Africa, ever since the expansion and popularity of the marimba in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Name the main parts of the marimba

• Keys

• Tone Bars

• Resonator

• Backboard

• Frame

Answer explanation

Modern marimbas, whether by a maker such as Yamaha or traditionally made in Africa, can cost between $500 - $20,000+ USD.

In what setting are NOT LIKELY to find a marimba band?

• Competitions

• Concerts

• Funerals

• Public Parades

Answer explanation

Some cultures take death a little differently than others. In West Africa, it may be appropriate to have dancers take away the body. In South Africa, choirs can sing a "send-off", as the person passes from one life to the next.