November 25 to 27, 2014
Grades 5 and 6
Learn more about our Linamar for the Performing Arts school program.
Drawing on the traditional music from the world’s Celtic nations, the Stratford-based quartet Rant Maggie Rant has established a new Celtic sound that reflects a fusion of world influences. The ensemble moves effortlessly from Irish jigs to Galician munieras to Scottish marches, driving them with Latin rhythms, African hand drumming, revved up tempos and unexpected time changes.
Pre-Information for Teachers
Rant Maggie Rant is known as a band that “colours outside the lines”. The band has also been billed as “Celtic music with an edge”.
That’s because they incorporate Latin, African, Middle Eastern rhythms, blues and rock within a traditional Celtic style. This is called “fusion”.
Celtic music has its roots in many nations and places:
- Ireland
- Scotland
- Cornwall
- Wales
- Lesser known Isle of Mann
- Galicia (Spain)
- Brittany (France)
- Quebec
- Canada’s East Coast (noted for establishing “new” Celtic music)
Some elements to listen for:
- Jigs – these are traditional Scottish dances
- Marches – these are easy to spot as they immediately suggest a walking style
- Revved up tempos – listen for the changes in pacing throughout the show
- Blues/rock guitar backdrops – listen for how the supporting instruments shape the band’s sound
Watch for all the different instruments:
- Fiddles – observe the bowing style
- Percussion – how many different types of drums?
- Vocals – how many musicians sing, do they sing in harmony?
- Recorders, pipes, flutes or whistles – do they make use of these instruments to provide the high notes?
- Guitars – what different types of guitars are used?
- Concertinas or button accordions – these are commonly used in Celtic music
School Program Coordinator
519- 837-5662 extension 2291
[email protected]