Composer

:

Fela Sowande

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1944

Average_duration

:

24:50

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

African Suite is a composition by Nigerian composer Fela Sowande. It was composed in 1930 and premiered in London in 1934. The suite consists of four movements, each of which is inspired by a different aspect of African culture. The first movement, titled "Akinla," is a lively and rhythmic piece that is based on the Yoruba folk song "Akinla." The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and call-and-response patterns, which are typical of African music. The second movement, "Akinla's Lament," is a slower and more mournful piece that is based on the same folk song as the first movement. The music is characterized by its use of minor keys and its melancholic melody, which is meant to evoke the sadness and loss that is often associated with African history. The third movement, "Karo," is a lively and energetic piece that is based on the traditional dance music of the Ewe people of Ghana. The music is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and its driving beat, which is meant to evoke the energy and excitement of African dance. The final movement, "Aso-oke," is a slow and contemplative piece that is based on the traditional weaving patterns of the Yoruba people of Nigeria. The music is characterized by its use of simple melodies and its gentle, flowing rhythms, which are meant to evoke the peaceful and meditative nature of weaving. Overall, African Suite is a powerful and evocative work that showcases the rich and diverse musical traditions of Africa. Through its use of traditional melodies, rhythms, and instruments, the suite celebrates the beauty and complexity of African culture, while also highlighting the struggles and challenges that have shaped its history.

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