polymeter in rumba - simultaneous triple & duple subdivisions

[davidpenalosa]

With all respect to the members,
I would abandon the idea of working clave with western notation.

Tony,
Notation serves the same purpose in Afro-Cuban folkloric music that it serves in salsa, jazz and European classical music. All of these genres require varying degrees of subjective interpretation. In other words, written music does not imply in any way, the absence of human interpretation.

While the standard ("Western") notation system offers the most flexible means of representing musical nuances on paper, the element of individual human expression is always a factor. That’s why different performances of piano sonatas and jazz standards never sound quite the same.

It’s true of course that the true feel of a part like rumba clave is often not as straight as it’s represented on paper. The same goes for salsa and jazz charts though. Consider that Aragon, Van Van and Eddie Palmieri all use charts, yet those bands all play with a feel that sets them apart from each other. The difference between the way jazz charts are written and the way they are performed is even greater.

I think all of your suggestions for picking up "feel" are great. It’s not an either-or situation though. The thread subject is "polymeter in rumba", not "how to play with feel", though it’s certainly a worthy topic in its own right. Analysis and written music are not a traditional part of this music. However, if we do engage in rhythmic analysis of rumba (as I’ve initiated in this thread), I will strive to be as accurate in my terminology and notation as I am able. If you don’t dig analysis or notation, that’s cool. It won’t interfere in playing together if I should ever have the pleasure.
-David

[blango]

So well put, and thank you David,

Please know i have the utmost respect for your knowledge and experience.

Yes, I grew up in the jazz tradition and we would be lost without our charts!!

Fake books are for real!

Yes, Bombs, thanks for the reminder, it was James! That was very cool.

Hope all is well and much love,

Tony



Edited By blango on 1195503472