Submitted by Judith A. Schneider, Ohio
Idea posted March 28, 2002
Here is a worksheet I developed. Feel free to use it with your kids.
Name ____________________ Homeroom____________
STUDY SHEET
WHY TOES TAP with Wynton Marsalis
Why does Wynton Marsalis say, "The rhythm is more important than melody in a song."?
Which version of "Waltz of the Flowers" did you like best? (Circle one)
TCHAIKOVSKY‚ S Original ELLINGTON‚ S Arrangement
Why?
How are percussion instruments used differently in an orchestra and in a jazz band?
Why does Wynton Marsalis say that, "Duke Ellington's arrangement of The Nutcracker Suite is itself a SYNCOPATION of the original."?
What aspect of rhythm do you understand better after watching this video? Explain.
MAIN POINTS OF DISCUSSION IN THIS VIDEO:
We identify songs by their melody, but without rhythm, there can be no melody.
Accented beats fall into odd or even meters.
Meters are divided into measures, which are points of reference for rhythms that dance, skip, hop, etc.
Tempo = fast, slow, etc.
We can play with rhythm by varying the accents and rests.
Ground rhythms are overworked and underappreciated, but they are essential to give music vitality and lift.
The bass, drums, and piano are the rhythm section of a jazz band, and they SWING.
Rhythms must be played with intensity and soul at all times.
Syncopation is accenting the unexpected.
No motion = no rhythm; no rhythm = no music.