Evelyn Glennie lost her hearing by the age of 12, but that didn't stop her from becoming a percussion virtuoso, a three-time Grammy winner, and a Dame Commander of the British Empire. In this Composer Quest interview, she shares some really interesting ideas about dynamics and writing for percussion. We also talk about her collaborations with Bjork, composer John Corigliano, and guitarist and improviser Fred Frith.
Tag: Composing Rhythms
Rhythms of Tanzania with Br. Onesmo Sanga
The stereotype of African rhythms being complex and fascinating is completely true. I found out firsthand during my nine months in a very remote part of Tanzania, living at Hanga Abbey and teaching English, computers, and music to kids in the village. Since most of these kids don't have access to instruments, they found a way to make totally compelling songs using only their voices.