Describe the music of ONE of the prescribed dance works you studied this year (listed above) - NSC Dance Studies - Question 8 - 2017 - Paper 1

The music for 'Ghost Dances' was composed by Inti-Illimani, a traditional Chilean folk music group.

The style of the music is traditional Chilean folk music, which incorporates various South American instruments.

The music enhances 'Ghost Dances' significantly through its emotional and storytelling elements. The wind sounds at the beginning create an eerie atmosphere, symbolizing a feeling of being in a cave, which sets the mood for the dance.

Folk music played with traditional South American instruments complements the folk style of movements and helps narrate the story of suffering and loss experienced by the people. For instance, the songs are haunting and tell the story of the lives affected by conflict, reflected in the dancers' movements, like the portrayal of a woman in a red dress.

Additionally, some parts of the songs are upbeat, contributing to the contrasting atmosphere of life before the war. Furthermore, at pivotal moments, such as the theme of death, silence is introduced, amplifying the impact and sadness of the moment.