Euro Roots World Music (tm)

Jutta &
the Hi-Dukes (tm)

BALKAN BEATS (tm)
Music Residency and Workshop Programs -
A musical and cultural adventure

 

For Orchestras, Bands, and Music Appreciation classes

 

Participants learn to play the modal scales and asymmetrical rhythms of the Balkan countries.

 

Balkan rhythms are novel to most students in America. Therefore, before they begin to learn a piece of music, they are taught a traditional dance that fits that music.

 

Not only does this process help the student internalize the rhythm, it also broadens their awareness of other cultures. Music is no longer just a matter of notes on a page. Instead, it takes on a physical reality.

 

Growing beyond 2/4 Time and Major Keys

 

The Dajchovo, in a 9/8 time signature, is contrasted with the Zembekiko, which is in 9/4 time. The Ruchenitsa, in 7/8 time, is compared to a Kalamatiano, which uses a different type of 7/8 time. The Chochek, a pulsed even time rhythm, is explored to underline how sometimes even 2/4 can feel asymmetrical.

 

The similarities and differences between Balkan scales, like Hijaz, Ousak, and Sabach, and Western major and minor scales are discerned through the visual layout of the intervals as well as through critical listening and actually playing them.

 

The duration of a Residency determines the number of rhythms and scales which can be explored.

 

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Non-musicians are welcome, too

 

Music Appreciation students are also able to participate in a Balkan Beats Residency and learn about the various asymmetrical rhythms and non-Western scales of the Balkans.

 

Participants learn to do some of the traditional dances and learn to sing, in non-English languages, songs which use non-Western scales. In addition, ethnic instruments, like the Bulgarian end-blown flute, Greek baglama, Middle-eastern hand drums, and the world-famous ocarina are demonstrated by the Hi-Dukes.

 

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History and cultural facts are presented through personal stories while the songs and dances are learned.

 

Getting the entire community involved

 

Ideally, a Balkan Beats Residency culminates in a public recital. The Hi-Dukes group makes sure that everyone gets involved by inviting the audience up at the end of the Recital to do fun, yet simple, community-building Balkan line and circle dances.

 

It is rare when learning can be as fun and inclusive as a Jutta & the Hi-Dukes Residency!

 

Workshops are an option

 

When a Residency is not feasible, consider a Workshop. Students are exposed to Balkan music through demonstration, discussion, and dance. Pre-selected groups learn simple dances, others get to play percussion with the band, and everyone gets to learn the chorus to a song.

 

With a repertoire of about 400 melodies and 50 dances, the Hi-Dukes group can be very flexible in what it presents and is quite happy to discuss presentation options with you.

 

If you would like a paper brochure, click here!

 

Music Residency with the L.B.Johnson School Orchestra
in Albuquerque, NM with Jutta & the Hi-Dukes

 

 

Assembly program demo video by Jutta & the Hi-Dukes