1. Bhangra

2. Background Originated as a folk dance in the area of Punjab (North India) in 1400s – created by farmers working on the land Songs became part of harvest celebrations Then eventually spread to other areas of society, including weddings etc

3. Modern bhangra Modern form of Bhangra has developed over the last 40 years Asian immigrants to other countries, including England – bringing their culture and music Birmingham, Leicester, London FUSION with western popular music Can be heard on radio, in nightclubs etc

4. Alaap First UK bhangra band to become popular – started to perform in temples and functions for the Asian communities BhabiyeniBhabiye – first hit single Started with traditional instruments and melodies, then made it more electronic Other performers include Panjabi MC – musician born in England who fused elements of bhangra with hip-hop and rap

5. dance Originally male dance – strong energetic steps and actions that represented the movements of the farmers as they worked on the field More recently, women have started to dance bhangra too Traditionally the bhangra dancing is done in groups (solos do exist but rare) Dancing in circles is common, as well as acrobatic stunts Human pyramids being created in the middle of a dance Club dance moves – as club dance

6. Musical features Chaal rhythm played on the dhol 4/4 time signature Vocal range limited – microtonal intervals occasionally Lyrics in Punjabi Fast tempo between 140-180 beats per minute Shouts of “hoi!”

7. Musical features ctd String and percussion instruments, sitar, tumbi influence of other styles including reggae, disco etc Electronic instruments – synthesisers, drum machines etc, music technology such as sampling, scratching Verse-chorus structure