AFR 220(F) Rhythm and Jazz in America, Brazil and Cuba (Same as Latina/o Studies 221 and Music 220)*

It is commonly taught that the three primary elements of music are melody, harmony and rhythm. It is the thesis of this course that rhythm is the most significant among these in defining American, Afro-Cuban and Brazilian Jazz. With historical, theoretical (The Mystery of Samba: Popular Music and National Identity in Brazil by Hermano Vianna, The Latin Beat: The Rhythms and Roots of Latin Music, from Bossa Nova to Salsa and Beyond by Ed Morales, The Latin Tinge: The Impact of Latin American Music on the United States by John Storm Roberts among others) and biographical texts (Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong, Caetano Veloso), recordings and in-class performance instruction we will examine the rhythmic basis of these genres, the relation of each to their African roots as well as the cultural influences and artists that helped create them. What is it in these styles that creates the infectious rhythm that drives the music and inspires movement and dance? Some of the rhythms/styles examined will be New Orleans' Second Line, Shuffle Swing in America, Son, Danzon, Bolero and Rumba Montuno in Cuba and Samba, Bossa Nova and Baiao in Brazil. All students will learn to play, sing and internalize the distinctive rhythmic elements and feel of each groove. In-class professional demonstrations of the musical styles being studied will be an important component of this course. There are plans for a field trip to New York City to hear music and participate in a percussion/performance workshop.
Format: lecture/discussion/performance. Requirements: two 8- to 10-page research papers, basic analysis assignments of musical compositions. Those with appropriate performance skills (instrumentalists, singers, and dancers) will have the option of substituting a performance accompanied by a two page written description for one of the two papers. Evaluations will also be based on class participation. Attendance at all classes required. No previous musical training necessary but familiarity with music notation will help.
Prerequisites: permission of instructor. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19). Preference given to those concentrating in Africana Studies or Music.

Hour: BRYANT