What were the rhythms learned?
We learned the core rhythms of rentak: Rentak Inang, Rentak Masri, Rentak Zapin, Rentak Joget, and Rentak Asli.
Some were originally Malay, some came from other places of the world and were adapted. But each rhythm had a distinct feeling, such as the middle eastern one feeling like bouncing up and down when riding a camel.
How are they used?
They are used to accompany the main melody of the piece and to create the feel of the music. In the workshop we were split into three sections and play different rhythms but together we compliment each other and form the original rhythm we were aiming for. I feel like it is a little bit like counterpoint.
Any other key musical features?
The drumming and body percussion is very sophisticated where a musician is able to make a wide range of sound through using different parts of the body or drum and striking it differently. For example, flicking the lower lip with hands and making different mouth shapes; bouncing the hands together to clap super quickly.
I used the Masri rythm and some percussive and wind instruments. I aimed to encorporate a more minimalistic approach to form (inspired by Thomas Newman) by developing the drum rhythm gradually. I decided to use the dulcimer (american instrument) because it is very percussive which blends into the drums. I also used the alto flute to play the main melody because the flute shown in the workshop was very cool.