Cool Stuff: South America

    For my first entry, I wanted to analyze and understand the soundscape of where these instruments would be played, along with the traditional sound and roots. This recording takes that desire to an entirely different level, with a traditional Incan master musician playing in traditional garb while in Cuzco (which if you didn't know is regarded as the historical site of the Incan capital). By playing these instruments within the walls of such a historic area, the culture and music can be felt by both sight and sound ( a feat hard to replicate even within a controlled environment such as an auditorium).

 

    After listening to traditional Incan music both in and out of class, one musical instrument intrigued me the most; the Chajcha. Surprisingly enough, I grew up around one of these, as my grandmothers favorite place to visit was the Andes when she was young (especially for the cultures that arose there). This video breaks down how the idiophone creates its sound (via the hollowness of the hooves) as well as the construction of the Chajcha itself, which was very interesting as well as entertaining to watch and admire. The drumming at the end also represents an unusual form of musical syncretism, as he later attaches the finished (Incan) Chajcha to the (American) snare drum/drum set as to obtain a somewhat syncopated rattle to each snare strike.

    With all of the music and instruments in mind, I wanted to spend my last moments of reflection on the environment and culture this music was formed in, as well as the citizens involved in these traditions. This video takes that desire to an entirely different level, with aerial shots and filming of some of the most famous Incan sites as well as traditions across Peru. From llamas to ruins, this short 6-minute film dives in to one of the richest cultural scenes I have ever seen, with all aspects of life, customs, hobbies, and passions explored. It is with this note that must say that Peru as well as South America will always hold a sense of wonder for me, and will hopefully continue to do so years into the future.