Twenty-four Studies in African Rhythms: Volume I Authored by: Fred Onovwerosuoke
Fred Onovwerosuoke
This collection of 12 Studies offers a rich musical exploration of diverse African rhythms and melodies. Here's a closer look at each study:
Volume One
All 12 Studies: Suitable for concert performance, with a combined duration of approximately 25 minutes.
Study I, Okoye: Incorporates polyrhythmic elements from Edo (Nigeria) and Baganda (Uganda) traditions.
Study II, Edo: An ancient Bini (Nigeria) folk melody accompanied by Senegalese royal dance rhythm patterns.
Study III, Udje: Influenced by a Nigerian Urhobo dance with the same name. This study forms the base for a composition titled "Ayevwiomo" (Birth) for flute and piano.
Study IV, Tunis: Captures the essence of a beloved Tuareg tune found in Tunisia, Burkina Faso, and northern Ghana.
Study V, Jali: Combines the musical heritage of West African kora playing griots with kraar melodies from northeastern Africa. Inspired by a larger composition, "Five Sketches for Flute, Violin and Piano."
Study VI, Iroro: Explores the meditative rituals of West African "River-goddess" cults. This study informs a flute and piano work called "Iroro."
Study VII, Herero Wedding Dance: Blends traditions from Namibia (Herero people) and Ethiopia (Tigre people) inspired by post-wedding celebratory dances.
Studies VIII, IX, XI: Resonate with "Ayevwiomo" (Study III), building a nuanced appreciation for African dance music.
Study X, Barka: Returns to the musical influences of Arabia and West Africa's Foula regions as expressed in "Five Sketches for Flute, Violin and Piano."
Study XII, Agbadza: Inspired by celebratory and funerary dance traditions from Ghana and Dahomey in West Africa.