African Society and Culture

African Culture and Society

On Friday 21st, Dec. we discussed African culture and society. We took notes on these elements and then we listened to American music that has been influenced by African themes and rhythms. The purpose of today was to gain a greater understanding of Africa's culture and to show that we as modern Americans are in fact connected to this great continent.

If you were absent you will need to complete the following in order to make up what you missed:

#1) Read Chapter 7 Section of your textbook. As you read fill in the notes sheet as much as possible. You may copy any missing notes from a friend.

Notes: African Society and Culture

#2) You will need to write a 1-2 page typed paper on African Influences on American music. In your paper you should address the following:

- What is syncopation and how does it relate to African music?
- What is call and response and how does it relate to African music?
- What is timbre and how does it relate to African music?
- What are some genres of music that have been heavily influenced by traditional African music themes: ragtime, blues, jazz, gospel, Motown, etc.?
- How are these genres and musical elements evident in today's American popular music styles?


Thanks.