Measuring Aksak Rhythm and Synchronization in Transylvanian Village Music by Using Motion Capture

Abstract

<p>Techniques based on motion capture can be useful in <span><span style="font-size: x-small;">analyzing a wide range of musical styles and practices</span></span>: in this case, Transylvanian village music. We focused on a repertoire known as “Gypsy songs of sorrow”, played by professional Gypsy musicians during parties and celebrations of their own community. Two parameters were the object of study: rhythmic duration, and synchronization between musicians (a violinist and a viola player). Results show that rhythm is a local variant of <em>aksak</em> and is based on two duration units (S=short, L=long) which respect the formula 2:3 &lt; S:L &lt; 3:4. Performances are characterized by large variations of the S:L ratio from period to period, which have an expressive function. Tracking the bow’s movements with motion capture techniques allowed to show that these variations are related to a swinging interpretation, which also involves a voluntary asynchrony between the two musicians.</p><p> </p><p>Supplemental examples for this article can be downloaded <a href="https://library.osu.edu/documents/ojs/">here</a>.</p>