The African Connection

Carl Wittrock's wide interest in global folk-music resulted in this concert-piece based on original African rhythms.
Obviously, the percussion section has a conspicious role to play, but the band too may indulge itself in moments of thoroughly delightful excitement.

The introduction depicts the awakening of nature, and develops into a dance. The (main) motif of this dance is from a dance entitled Apollo and comes from Gambia. Its accompaniment consists of an ostinato pattern by balaphon-master Maudo Susa.
The quiet middle movement is based on the rhythm of the 'gigbo' : a traditional dance from Ghana.
In the final movement -which also bears a slight resemblanceto a theme from 'The Lion King'- the so-called 'Kono' rhythm is used.

The work is played most advantageously using djembes.

Challenge and please your percussion section with 'The African Connection'.