BARRELHOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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Barrelhouse refers to a lively and raucous style of American piano-based blues music that emerged in the early 20th century. The term is also used to describe the informal venues, often speakeasies or small bars, where this type of music was performed.
In terms of music, barrelhouse is characterized by its upbeat tempo, energetic rhythms, and boisterous piano playing. The pianist typically drives the performance with rapid and syncopated left-hand bass lines, while the right hand delivers melodic improvisations and embellishments. The music often employs call-and-response patterns and showcases the individual skills of the performers. Barrelhouse blues often deals with themes of hardship, love, and the pursuit of pleasure, capturing the spirit and experiences of the African American working class.
As for the venues, barrelhouse refers to small, unpretentious bars or juke joints, historically located in African American neighborhoods. These establishments offered a space for people to come together, enjoy live music, dance, and socialize. The name "barrelhouse" is derived from the practice of using overturned barrels as makeshift tables or surfaces to place drinks on. The atmosphere in these venues was typically lively, informal, and rowdy, reflecting the exuberance and passion of the music being played.
In summary, barrelhouse represents a style of piano-based blues music that is characterized by its energetic rhythms and lively performances. It also refers to the informal venues where this music was played, providing a sense of community and entertainment for its audiences.
Common Misspellings for BARRELHOUSE
- varrelhouse
- narrelhouse
- harrelhouse
- garrelhouse
- bzrrelhouse
- bsrrelhouse
- bwrrelhouse
- bqrrelhouse
- baerelhouse
- badrelhouse
- bafrelhouse
- batrelhouse
- ba5relhouse
- ba4relhouse
- bareelhouse
- bardelhouse
- barfelhouse
- bartelhouse
- bar5elhouse
- barrelhyouse
Etymology of BARRELHOUSE
The word "barrelhouse" originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is derived from the term "barrelhouse piano", where "barrelhouse" refers to the type of establishment where these pianos were commonly found.
During this time, "barrelhouse" referred to rough and rowdy drinking establishments, often characterized by the presence of a piano. The term may have emerged from the idea that these venues were so simple and crude that a piano could be acquired by trading a barrel of whiskey or beer.
Over time, "barrelhouse" became associated with the lively and spirited style of piano playing that took place in these establishments. By extension, the term began to denote a form of blues music characterized by a syncopated rhythm and improvisation, typically played on a piano or organ.
Similar spelling words for BARRELHOUSE
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