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What does the pansori drummer do during a performance?
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pansori
Learn about the Korean buk (double-headed barrel drum) by watching and listening to a man play the type of buk that accompanies pansori narrative singing.
In a pansori performance, the drummer, known as a kosu, plays a vital role in supporting the vocalist through the following actions:
- Rhythmic Accompaniment: The drummer provides the appropriate rhythmic setting for each song by marking phrases with specific patterns on a puk (a double-headed barrel drum).12
- Vocal Interjections: The drummer offers vocal encouragement and interjections known as ch’uimsae throughout the performance.2
- Improvised Interaction: A significant amount of improvised interaction occurs between the drummer and the singer, creating a dynamic exchange as the epic drama unfolds.1
Together, the singer and the drummer balance spoken narration, song, and dramatic gestures to deliver the performance.2