THE 5 DISCIPLINES OF CARNIVAL
While many people see carnival as a mass of colour and spontaneous partying, there are 5 disciplines of Carnival that make it the amazing spectacle it has become. The Notting Hill Carnival is made up of 5 disciplines (otherwise known as the five arenas).
The ‘Five Disciplines of Carnival’ are:
1). Mas
2). Steel Pan
3). Calypso
4). Soca
5). SoundSystems
1). Mas or Masquerade
‘Playing Mas’ is where Carnival lovers can take part and be part of the processions and floats, wearing the ‘Mas’ Costume from their favourite band.
2). Steel Pan
The Steel Pan is a Traditional Trinidadian instrument which is either static, or worn around the neck, from Trinidad
3). Calypso
Calypso is Traditional Trinidadian political and satirical commentary set to music. You can catch your favourite Calypsonian at the London Calypso Tent
4). Soca
High energy Trinidadian carnival music. ‘Soca On The Move’ refers to the soca music being played for the masqueraders costume bands also known as ‘Carnival Mas Band’
5). SoundSystems
The concept originated from Jamaica, now a staple of the UK, proven to be the major attraction at Notting Hill, with various differing genres of amplified music being played at Carnival by static performing units.
Together they create the essence and spirit of Carnival.