Maasai Music

Blog 188

The Maasai tribe, renowned for their rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and distinctive way of life, also boasts a captivating musical tradition deeply ingrained in their daily rituals and ceremonies. Originating from the East African region, primarily Kenya and Tanzania, the Maasai people have nurtured a musical legacy that reflects their connection to nature, their spirituality, and their communal identity.

Vocals play a crucial role in Maasai music, with singing being an integral part of everyday life. Maasai songs are sung in a call-and-response style, with one person leading the melody and others joining in to create rich harmonies. These songs are used to tell stories, pass down traditions, and express emotions ranging from joy and celebration to sorrow and lamentation.

In addition to their ceremonial music, the Maasai also have a tradition of “ngoma” or dance. Maasai dances are characterized by their energetic movements, intricate footwork, and colorful attire. Dancers often wear elaborate beaded jewelry and garments adorned with traditional patterns and symbols that reflect their cultural identity.

Maasai music and dance are not just forms of entertainment but are deeply intertwined with the social, spiritual, and cultural fabric of Maasai society. They are used to mark significant milestones such as births, weddings, and rites of passage, as well as to communicate with the spirit world and honor their ancestors.

Our guest blog post writer:                                                                                         Bibin Ezhuplackal is a writer and priest from Kerala, India. He is the founder of an online page called “kadalaass.” He has written a book and movie reviews for several periodicals. He spent two years (2020-22) in Tanzania doing pastoral outreach. He had worked with the Maasai tribe in Kilimanjaro. Now he is pursuing M.A. in Cinema and Television.

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Introduction to Voice Masters : Cicely Berry

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The voice is the means by which, in everyday life, you communicate with other people, and though, of course, how you present yourself  your posture, movement, dress and involuntary gesture — gives an impression of your personality, it is through the speaking voice that you convey your precise thoughts and feelings.

                   ~ Cicely Berry, Voice and the Actor 

Cicely Berry was highly respected for her work as a voice director and coach in prestigious institutions. With a career marked by prestigious appointments and global workshops, her teachings have left an indelible mark on actors and directors worldwide.

 She conducted workshops worldwide, including in Korea, Russia, and Asia. She authored several books, including “Voice and the Actor” (1973), “Your Voice and How to Use It,” “The Actor and the Text,” “Text in Action,” and “Word Play: A Textual Handbook for Directors and Actors.” Each of these works serves as a treasure trove of wisdom, offering practical techniques and exercises for honing vocal and textual skills.

In her book “Voice and the Actor,” Berry emphasized the importance of the speaking voice in conveying thoughts and feelings, stating that it’s the primary means of communication in everyday life. She highlighted the significance of vocal expression over non-verbal cues, stressing that it allows for genuine connections with others. Through modulation, tone, and inflection, individuals can imbue their words with depth and authenticity, forging genuine connections with their audience.

Berry’s career was marked by her commitment to sharing her expertise through both her writings and workshops, where she guided actors and directors in honing their vocal skills. Her contributions continue to inspire performers to communicate effectively both on and off the stage.

Public Speaking to Inspire many

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Sudha Murthy, Indian engineer, teacher, author, motivational speaker and Chairperson of Infosys Foundation inspires many with her public speeches. This one title ‘Being called Cattle Class’ , especially caught my attention.

Drawing from her vast array of experiences, Sudha Murthy weaves together stories from her philanthropic endeavors, personal encounters, and observations of the world. These narratives not only entertain but also instill a sense of duty towards the less fortunate, emphasizing the transformative impact of kindness and generosity.

What sets Sudha Murthy’s speeches apart is their universal appeal; her words have the power to transcend boundaries of age, culture, and nationality, touching the hearts of listeners and inspiring positive change. Whether speaking to corporate executives, students, or community members, she leaves an enduring impression, igniting a passion for altruism and social awareness.

Do you keep in mind how to influence a diverse audience as a speaker? From what I’ve observed of Mrs. Murthy, it appears that being comfortable with yourself, cherishing life’s experiences, and respecting people and relationships can result in compelling content and stories for your speeches. So, remember this when you’re preparing your next presentation.

Introducing Acting Methods

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The realm of acting has been greatly enriched by the profound contributions of various masters throughout history. Among the most notable figures are Konstantin Stanislavski, Jerzy Grotowski, Michael Chekhov, Bertolt Brecht, Vsevolod Meyerhold, Lee Strasberg, Stella Adler, Peter Brook, Eugenio Barba, and many others. Their methods and philosophies have not only shaped the craft of acting but continue to influence actors to this day.

Stanislavski, often regarded as the pioneer of modern acting, introduced a system that prioritized psychological realism and emotional authenticity. Grotowski challenged traditional theatrical conventions by exploring the spiritual and physical dimensions of performance, advocating for a stripped-down, direct connection between actor and audience.

Chekhov, a disciple of Stanislavski, developed a method focusing on imagination, physicality, and inner sensation to create vivid and truthful portrayals. Brecht, on the other hand, pioneered “epic theatre,” which aimed to provoke critical thought and social consciousness through techniques like distancing and alienation.

Meyerhold’s biomechanics method emphasized precise, dynamic movement and experimentation with avant-garde techniques. Strasberg popularized method acting, which drew upon personal experiences and emotional memory to inform performances.

Adler emphasized the importance of empathy and cultural context in character development, while Brook challenged theatrical norms with innovative storytelling forms and presentations. Barba, through the Odin Teatret, explored the ritualistic and physical aspects of performance, contributing to a broader understanding of theatrical expression.

These masters, each with their unique approaches, have left an indelible mark on the art of acting, providing actors with a rich tapestry of techniques and insights to draw from in their creative endeavors.

Get ready for our upcoming series on Acting Methods! We’ll explore core concepts and insights from masterminds, inviting you to join us on this transformative journey through our blog posts. Expect new insights and a deeper understanding of acting techniques ahead! Stay tuned for an exciting adventure!

Daily Happiness Formula

Blog 184

Written by Gianni, ASF’s in-house mental wellness coach

In my journey towards a meaningful career post-Covid-19, I’ve been able to explore hybrid work arrangements, making more purposeful use of time reducing commutes. This period has been filled with significant experiences, underlining the importance of prioritizing the mental health of employees and nurturing a supportive environment. It was during this phase that I stumbled upon a Certification in Mental Wellness Coaching.

As I explored this area of interest, I came across a model, offering a structured approach to sustaining happiness, rather than leaving it to chance. Developed by psychologist Dr. Martin Seligman, PERMA dissects wellbeing into five core elements: Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. I see immense potential in this model and I’m enthusiastic about exploring it further to take control of my mental wellbeing.”

Stay tuned for my upcoming blog series on mental wellbeing. I’ll be discussing each aspect of the PERMA model and how I use it in my everyday life.

The PERMA Model was developed by respected positive psychologist, Martin Seligman, and was widely published in his influential 2011 book, “Flourish.”

Get your daily dose of happiness with PERMA

Maasai Music and Dance

Blog 183

When the Maasai people sing or dance, they don’t use any instruments. With the exception of some tracks that feature big horns, all of their music is vocal. Their songs have a chorus of singers rendering rhythms while the melody is sung by the olaranyani, or song leader. Usually, the person with the best voice for that song is the olaranyani. When olaranyani begins to sing a line or a song’s title (namba), the entire group applauds with a single, unanimity call. While the Masai jump and dance, the beads that the men and women wear also produce a jingling sound. Ladies sing tunes, recite lullabies, and sing praises to their sons.

The rainy season is when people sing and dance the most, and it’s also a good time to commemorate life milestones like marriage and circumcision. This involves flirting and usually happens around the manyattas.

While there are many variations among Maasai dances, most share certain characteristics. Singers usually form a line and each member jumps as high as they can at a time. The warriors can dance for hours on end, and they all try to dance for as long as they can. Maasai dance is fun since it’s very easygoing. Some dancers focus intently on the singing, dancing, and music, while others only chuckle. A few warriors may stop dancing in the middle to chat with their friends.

Photos courtesy of Bibin Ezhuplackal

Our guest blog post writer:

Bibin Ezhuplackal is a writer and priest from Kerala, India. He is the founder of an online page called “kadalaass.” He has written a book and movie reviews for several periodicals. He spent two years (2020-22) in Tanzania doing pastoral outreach. He had worked with the Maasai tribe in Kilimanjaro. Now he is pursuing M.A. in Cinema and Television.

Voice Master – Kristin Linklater

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“If you’re holding your breath in any way, part of you is absent”  

• Kristin Linklater 

Linklater’s voice guides individuals through a series of structured exercises, focusing on relaxation, breath awareness, feeling the resonance within the body, throat opening, expanding vocal range, and refining articulation. Through this process, individuals can unlock the expressive potential of their voice and enhance their eloquence.

Kristin, highly sought after as both a public speaker and workshop leader, has extensively traveled to various countries including the USA, Germany, Italy, Russia, and more, covering conferences and training events. Trained as an actor at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, Kristin’s mentor, Iris Warren, took a unique approach to voice training, emphasizing an internal rather than external method.

In 2014, Linklater started Kristin Linklater Voice Centre, a fully residential voice retreat centre offering a variety of voice and text courses.

Kristin was one of the most recognized names in the field of voice production for actors having published two leading textbooks: Freeing the Natural Voice: Imagery and Art in the Practice of Voice and Language (1976; revised edition 2006) Freeing Shakespeare’s Voice: The Actor’s Guide to Talking the Text (1992).

The Maasai Community Performing Arts

Blog 181

The Maasai tribe of East Africa boasts a rich tradition of performing arts deeply intertwined with their cultural identity and daily life. Dance holds a central place in their rituals, celebrations, and rites of passage. Maasai dances are characterized by rhythmic movements, vigorous jumps, and intricate footwork, often accompanied by chanting and the rhythmic beat of drums made from animal skins. Warriors adorned in traditional attire, beaded jewelry, and intricate headdresses perform mesmerizing dances that showcase their agility, strength, and unity as a community.

The dances of the Maasai often tell stories of their history, legends, and values, preserving their heritage through oral tradition and movement. Each dance holds symbolic significance, representing aspects of their nomadic lifestyle, spiritual beliefs, or connections to nature and animals.

Additionally, the Maasai are renowned for their vocal music, consisting of harmonious melodies and call-and-response patterns. Singing is a communal activity, with men, women, and children joining together in melodic chants during various ceremonies and gatherings.

Overall, Maasai performing arts serve as a vibrant expression of their cultural pride, solidarity, and resilience, embodying the spirit of a people deeply rooted in tradition yet adaptable to change.

Introduction to Voice Masters – Patsy Rodenburg

Blog 180

The concept of clarity in voice has proven beneficial for generations of artists and professionals across various fields, thanks to the guidance of teachers and master voice coaches. Acting Space Forum is now reintroducing and sharing the wisdom of these stalwarts in the realm of voice mastery. Today, we are highlighting the esteemed voice master, Patsy Rodenburg. She is the author of several influential books on voice coaching, including Speaking Shakespeare, The Actor Speaks, The Right to Speak, The Need for Words, and Second Circle.

As Patsy Rodenburg  talks about actors voice work in her book The Actor Speaks as follows;

      “Great acting is specific. You have to experience every word and image specifically as you say it – not before or after, but presently in the moment as though for the first and only time those words are spoken. Better still, you connect and engage with the form and words from the character’s point of view. Every idea and image is experienced as deeply and fully as possible – you never get to the end of this work. Your imagination goes to where the language of the play wants you to be.  

     You observe the forms. 

     Your voice reflects meaning. 

     Your pace is the text’s pace as is your rhythm. 

     You are clear, audible and present. 

     The actor speaks. 

       When this all happens, the audience really hears and understands the play. They can relax and cease worrying that they might not understand. They are being reached and the actor can do their job. They are in safe hands. And in the knowledge that the actor has skill and is a professional storyteller, they can become present and fully attentive. They too are in the moment. They are safe with these actors and therefore can listen to unsafe stories”.

Reference:

Rodenburg, Patsy. The Actor Speaks: Voice and the Performer.

London: Methuen Drama, 2019. Performance Books. 

Bloomsbury Collections

Importance of self-care to your wellbeing

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Self-care is the intentional effort to look after one’s physical, emotional, and mental health. This involves a range of practices such as maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and getting enough sleep to support the body. 

Emotionally, self-care means recognizing and dealing with emotions, establishing healthy boundaries, and engaging in activities that bring happiness.

Mentally, it includes strategies like mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and seeking help when needed to manage stress and maintain clarity of mind. 

Socially, self-care is about fostering positive relationships, spending time with loved ones, and surrounding oneself with supportive connections. 

Additionally, spiritual self-care encompasses practices that nurture inner peace and alignment with personal beliefs. 

Overall, self-care is a comprehensive approach to self-preservation, emphasizing the importance of equilibrium and prioritizing one’s well-being to flourish in all areas of life.