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Eritrea
has rich and mosaic culture reflected by
its folk music. Each region knows its original music. Yet the base
remained the same. Not only the rhythm and the melodies do not differ
much, but the instruments and the lyrics are in the same line. The
Masenko (krar) and the drums
are used in most of the regions.
The Eritrean music is based on the so called pentatonic scale. A scale
with 5 notes to the octave.( like the black notes in the piano). It is
similar to the Scotish, Chinese and Porto Ricaen music. Its influence
reached neighbouring countries such as Ethiopia, Sudan, and Somalia, .
Contemporary Eritrean music might be a potpourri of diverse traditions,
but it has emerged as a unique blend, with a character all of its own
.It was the music of weddings, family gatherings and wild impromptu
parties.
Musical instruments in Eritrea varies from chordophone instrument such
as Krar (masenko) which is the most common instruments used throughout
Eritrea. Rhythmic instruments such as drums are also common in the
Eritrea. Eritreans play also other instruments such as lute or Oud, as
well as western instruments especially in modern Eritrean pop-music,
such as saxophone, electric guitar, bass, violins,(new) are often used.
Normally Eritrean artists release cassettes and CDs. The are sold in
Eritrea as well as in the Gulf area, Sudan, Europe Australia and
America.
Music performance in Eritrea are mainly at wedding
celebration, which are in the open air with the bands at a small stage.
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