Ka Bohaleng / On the Sharp Side

Abel Selaocoe

Piece Duration: 4:33

About this Piece

Note on Vocal Part: The singer is singing in Sesotho (or, Sotho), a Southern Bantu language that is one of the 12 official languages of South Africa! Complete at least two of the tasks below, to get acquainted with the language!

Learn how to introduce yourself in Sesotho by watching this video!
Learn up to 10 common Sesotho phrases by watching this video!
Listen to this quick Sesotho vocabulary lesson from Daniel, a Guest Relations Manager in Lesotho, South Africa! Make some observations about the language for yourself, as well.

Form: (See Notable Passages Below)
Intro: 0:00, 2 Measure Refrain
A: 1:19, 2 Measure Refrain
B: 2:41, 2 Measure Refrain
A: 3:20, 12 Measures of Refrain
C: 3:53, 2 Measure Refrain

Notable Passages

Listen

Time Stamp: 0:00 — 1:18
Description:

Introduction, 2 Measure Refrain. (Listen for the performers' rubato in this section!)

Keywords: Form - Misc. , Rubato - Expressive Elements , Rubato - Tempo

Listen

Time Stamp: 1:18 — 2:41
Description:

A Section, 2 Measure Refrain. The music begins to use a rhythmic pattern in mixed meter!

The music alternates between groups of 5 and 6 eighth notes. 5+6=11, which puts this music in 11/8 time! (Eighth Note = c. 250 bpm)

Listen to a metronome at 250 beats per minute
Count and Clap! "1 2 3 4 5 - 1 2 3 4 5 6"
Turn the metronome off, and clap along with the Notable Passage. Hold on to your hats, this music moves fast!

Keywords: Form - Misc. , Mixed Meter , Presto , Rhythmic Pattern

Listen

Time Stamp: 2:41 — 3:20
Description:

A Section returns, 12 Measures of Refrain

Keywords: Form - Misc.

Listen

Time Stamp: 3:53 — 4:35
Description:

C Section, 2 Measure Refrain

Keywords: Form - Misc.