Rhythm

Hey everyone,

I'm starting a new series on solo vibes arranging, where in the first part, I'll give an arrangement in the form of sheet music, and in the second part, I'll walk through it, note by note, explaining why and how I'm picking voicings, textures, etc. I hope this gives everyone ideas on arranging tunes on their own, as well as giving a tangible arrangement to play on gigs or for practice.

So, in this first part, I'll just be posting the sheet music. The second part will have an explanation attached.

Download the attachment for general background and notation of the bell pattern.

Me and drummer that will never miss a beat. Things to do with this drummer.

[ESP] Yo y un baterista que nunca se va del pulso. Cosas para hacer con este baterista.

6 + 4 African Bell Perspectives

This video explores a contemporary treatment of a bell pattern from the country of Benin in West Africa. These drumset examples are adapted to playing the balafon, but can be applied to any instrument. The 2-bar pattern in 12/8 is built with the first bar in a “6” feel and the second in “4.” The alternation of 6 and 4 creates a profound shift in perspective as it is played by the musician and heard by the listener.

Download the attached file for notation and variations.

See the attached PDF for notation

See the attached handout for notation and background information...

See the attached PDF for notation.

Download the attached PDF for notation and general background.

Download the attachment for more information, notation, and context

Traditional African Dance:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOlgMgZkAQQ

J. Leake books, CDs:
http://www.rhombuspublishing.com/master_drummers_west_africa.html

Using the first 16 bars of Exercise #1 from Ted Reed's classic book, ideas are adapted to the balafon in a variety of styles to build independence.

Download the attached excerpt from Ted's book.