ADOCLASSIQUE Popular art music composition based on Asante Mampong adowa

Abstract

In our traditional setup a trait of identifying most societies is by their music, hence, the degree of value placed on traditional music. The project was an attempt to explore and analyse the elements of adowa music of the people of Asante Mampong. The researcher as a creative ethnomusicologist collected data using observation, oral interview and audio-video recording. The study discusses the provenance of the Asante Mampong adowa genre; its role and significance to the people, the ensemble setup; the performance; and a collection of twenty (20) songs. Elements such as lineal and vertical sonorities, rhythm and the ensemble were critically examined and some of its generative processes selected and fused with Western compositional techniques to create a two-movement popular art music composition titled Adoclassique. The choice of instruments for this African jazz novelty was based on tone compatibility, pitch implications and their availability; consequently, the use of flute, soprano saxophone, piano, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, upright bass, cowbell, claves, cymbal, rattles, conga drums, and drum set. Its two movements have been named Alla Afro Cuban and Jazzed-up. A detailed sectional analysis of the score has been provided to guide performers and listeners. The study confirms the model of intercultural composition theory which says that the art music composer must have firm background knowledge of the traditional music in use so as to maintain the idiom whilst he innovates a new music consistent with the tradition in a creative thinking style. It is hoped that when Adoclassique is played to the people it will help resuscitate their appreciation and participation towards their own indigenous music.