African Polyrhythms
In West Africa, societies such as the Yoruba, the Eve, the Akan and the Ibo possess a music rich in rhythmic vitality. It is a music of multiple layers of rhythms. While European classical music has developed complex harmonies of tones, African music has developed a complex interweaving of contrasting rhythmic patterns. The African musician strives for the occurrence of at least two different rhythms at once, and it is precisely this juxtaposition of opposing rhythms that creates the vital spark of African music.
The book Ancient Traditions--Future Possibilities, by Matthew Montfort, contains exercises that teach these rhythms. Some of these exercises are adapted here for the World Wide Web.
Using MIDI
GM Standard MIDI files of West African rhythm exercises from the book are presented here, arranged for General MIDI instruments such as conga and bongo. Use these to practice, or as rhythm tracks for an original composition. Computers with multimedia capabilities now come configured for MIDI playback via web browsers.
To set up playback on a MIDI sound module that is not GM compatible, see the MIDI map of the drums in the Eve orchestra.
African Rhythm Exercises
How to Play Two Against Three includes complete instructions, notation, and a MIDI file. A beginning level example from Chapter 1, Exercise III A, pages 18-20.
Eve Bell Pattern with Clap includes complete instructions, notation, and a MIDI file. An intermediate level example from Chapter 1, Exercise V B-2, page 33. This rhythm was used as the basis for the fast section of the title track from the Ancient Future album Quiet Fire.
Takada Drumming MIDI File is an advanced level example of the takada drumming of the Eve people of the island town of Anyako off the coast of Southeastern Ghana. From Chapter 1, Exercise VII B, page 39.
(20K GIF of Takada Drumming Notation)
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