The Brass Coast music
The Music of The Brass Coast
Style summary
Like the Freeborn themselves, their music is rhythmic, vigorous and fiery. Waily reeded or brass instruments, rich vocal harmonies and the strumming of strings resound in counterpoint with the ever-present syncopation of drums, tambourines and claves. It is said a Freeborn will make an instrument out of anything - hands, cutlery, tables and crockery are all used to enthusiastically accompany performers. Their vocal tradition involves not only the singing of complex melodies and accompaniment, but also encourages others to join in ululating harmonies, drones and chants. The overall impression is vibrant, noisy and enthusiastic - music, like everything in their lives, is to be savoured to the utmost.
Brass Coast music draws on the real world inspiration of Corsican music, Spanish Pilgrim songs and New World sea shanties. Although they are a seafaring nation, more traditional English shanties (such as Poor Tom Bowling, The Mermaid etc.) would be better suited to the musical tradition of the Marches.
Commonly known songs
Pick a few examples from the list below to specifically promote as well-known within that nation. Provide lyrics and score/chords. Preferably in a range of difficulties.
A musical tradition
Suggest how the music fits into the cultural behaviour in general (e.g. battle hakas, wassails).
One for the kids
Further examples
More examples for keen bards.
Songs
- Fire Maringo
- Riqueza's Dream
- Los Set Gotx/Sail Away Across the Sea
- Stella Nuova
Instrumentation and tunes
High percussion e.g. tambourines, shakers, clapping, high drums; reeded woodwind (especially if a bit waily and 'snake charmer' sounding); jangly bouzoukis or guitars, preferably plucked rather than strummed.
Other performance traditions
- Dance
How to adapt your repertoire
- Never perform without giving your audience a way to join in. Get them clapping or stomping, or tell them to cheer or repeat when they hear certain words. If you are ambitious teach them a simple ostinato to go under the song. It's all about the participation!
- Rhythms could be much lighter than other nations, keep them syncopated (off beat), and on tambourines, castanets, shakers, or light drums. Keep your playing light and bouncy!
- Don't be afraid to ornament when you are singing, have a listen to some waily Spanish or Arabic medieval music and copy the style into the songs you are choosing.
Our sources
Credits, links to artists, further material etc.