Sly Mongoose, Caribbean music for Mandolin and Piano. Musical Musings by Dr. George Roberts

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Musical Musings by Dr. George Roberts
Sly Mongoose (traditional)
Mandolin: VIVI GKEKA
Piano and Arrangement: DR. GEORGE ROBERTS
Videography: DR. GWENDOLYN FEVRIER-ROBERTS

This folk song has many claimants for its origin. One thing is sure, however, is that it is definitely Caribbean.

Working with Vivi, my Athenian Mandolin collaborator on this piece, further reinforced to me that music and playing has an accent. Though she easily got the notes correctly, to get the Caribbean intonation we had to get her dancing on the chair in rhythm. And even after that you could sometimes hear her Greek heritage coming through.

But nothing’s wrong with that. These are the things that help to make life and music interesting!

This arrangement is based on one I wrote some years ago. It features a musical break after the first first verse and chorus which has Vivi dancing in her seat as she marinates in the Caribbean culture.

In order for these musings to be more accessible I have launched a YouTube channel. This is accessible at https://youtu.be/Ekr2pQjBBMA I would be grateful if everyone subscribes, shares and likes it. Also encourage friends and family to do likewise. I will be regularly uploading musical musings to this site as they emerge.

Thanks to all those who have contacted me to express their appreciation for my efforts. It is very gratifying to learn of the difference that I’m making in some lives.

GMR