Week+4

Composition focus: RHYTHM

This week we have discussed in depth the concept of rhythm. We have discussed the difference between **rhythm** and **steady beat**, **time signature**, **note values**, and the concept of **syncopation**. You have seen how each of these qualities can be used in compositions in the STOMP video. You will continue this week and next week to create your own STOMP composition. Your STOMP composition should show understand of all the concepts mentioned above (in bold). media type="file" key="Canceling_Stamps.mp3" width="240" height="20"

The above is a real life example of a STOMP-like composition. The authors of the book //World of Music// describe what you are hearing:

"The men making the sounds you hear are workers canceling letters at the University of Ghana post office... This is what you are hearing: the two men seated at the table slap a letter rhythmically several times to bring it from the file to the position on the table where it is to be canceled (this act makes a light-sounding thud). The marker is inked one or more times (the lowest, most resonant sound you hear) and then stamped on the letter (the high-pitched mechanized sound you hear). As you can hear, the rhythm produced is not a simple one-two-three (bring forward the letter -- ink the marker -- stamp the letter). Rather, musical sensitivities take over. Several slaps on the letter bring it down, repeated thuds of the marker in the ink pad and multiple cancellations are done for rhythmic interest... The other sounds you hear have nothing to do with the work itself. A third man has a pair of scissors that he clicks -- not cutting anything, but adding to the rhythm.... the fourth worker simply whistles along. He and any of the other three workers who care to join him whistle popular tunes or church music that kits the rhythm."

Using the above passage to support your thoughts, please describe what you hear in this piece. Please make sure to comment on the **rhythm, steady beat, time signature,** and **syncopation**. Only a blog entry is required this week. Responses to others entries is encouraged but does not give credit this week.

Due 4/10/09