2. Conny Verano
3. Sub-Saharan Africa
4. Kalimba
5. This is an interesting piece because of the interesting plucked instrument used. I find that this instruments tone is very iconic. The first time I heard this instrument used in western music was in the broadway musical The Lion King. I thought this would be an interesting musical topic as authenticity comes into question. I find it interesting that many different kinds of musicians study other cultures instruments and try and perform them with as much authenticity as they can muster. But is this authentic? Are we doing a disservice by not showing this instrument being played in its natural surrounding? I think we can still be authentic in this instance. I believe it is our job as music educators to try and be as authentic as possible. In order to keep music like this in the forefront of our minds, we must be willing to experience the instrument on every level even if the performance isn't as authentic.
I never heard New Age music played on a kalimba before. Just goes to show that an authentic instrument can be used in multiple ways. For comparison, find a recording of kalimba music from Uganda or Zimbabwe, maybe on Simithsonian Folkways.
ReplyDeleteThis seems to have the general sound of the kalimba correct but I would question the authenticity of the way the instrument is made as well. From sheer observation, the instrument being used in the video seems to be extremely well put together, possibly with modern tools and materials, instead of in an authentic way. In my experience this tends to change the sound and thus lessen the authenticity of the instrument and the performance. Along with the above suggested recording search, I would also explore ways the instrument is being manufactured and judge if this is actually being made and sounds like an authentic kalimba.
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