Nyasa of Tanzania

Based on the elements of traditional African music, Nyasa of Tanzania is a fun, polyrhythmic piece that is easy enough for an Orff ensemble to perform. The rhythms sound more complicated than they are and are easily teachable by rote. There is also opportunity for students to improvise in a call-response section. Although it is composed to use some traditional African instruments, it is possible to substitute standard percussion instruments where needed (conga or bongo for djembe, tom tom for barrel drum, bass drum for long drum and maraca for shekere). A great piece for teaching rhythmic layering to your intermediate percussion ensemble!