Art songs are folk songs which have been composed or written and arranged to be sung by a choir or played by an instrument.
They are usually written for solo voice with piano accompaniment
Art songs are based on a story or poem which are sung by well trained singers
African Art songs
These are Traditional/ folk songs which have been arranged to be sung by a choir or using different voice parts.
They are arranged using western composing styles
African folk songs or African songs which have been rearranged for solo or choral performances.
They can also be accompanied by African musical instruments or western musical instruments
African art songs are written and performed in an African style.
In Kenya, many choral performances at the Kenya National Music Festivals are art songs composed or arranged from African Tunes and Melodies
The songs use African rhythm and language
African art songs are based on traditions of Africa.
Example of Art Song
WESTERN ART SONGS
Is a European or western folk song which has been arranged for solo or choral performance.
Are simply art song based on the western/European style of performance.
Art songs are written in verses.
Western art songs are based on stories and talk about the beauty of nature.
When performing western art songs ensure that you bring out the correct mood.
The mood can be shown through facial expressions, gestures observing performance directions and observing correct tempo or speed.
Different art songs convey different messages.
Example of Western Art Song
Lyrics: The Path to the Moon
Eric H. Thiman l Choir
I long to sail on a path to the moon, On a de-ep blue night
when the wind is cool A glist'ning Path that runs out to sea
Silver the sails to carry me to carry, Carry, Carry, me over the sea So will I sail on a stary night on the path to the moon, a sea bird's flight! Skimming the waves where the fishes play
Traveling on for many a day Silver the sails to carry me,
to carry, carry, carry, me over the sea!
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