Striking the two palms of the hands together result in a sound known as clap. Clapping is usually done to express approval or appreciation. It is done in a rhythmic pattern and can be done with music or by itself. Let us discuss the many uses of clapping your hands:
1. Hand Clapping Games
A clapping game is usually played by two players but can also be played by more than two. It involves clapping along with singing or reciting a rhyme. They are quite popular throughout the world and loved by kids. It is ideal for kids from 2 years old and upwards and can be played by both males and females. However, it is mostly considered to be a girl’s game particularly in Europe and other cultures that are strongly influenced by the European culture. The game includes clapping your own hand and the hand of your partner at intervals. Sometimes the clapping might include slapping other parts of the body and most games end by the players freezing which is ceasing all movements. There are many rhymes that are used in the clapping game and they are very popular. One such rhyme that is used in the clapping game is “A Sailor” and goes like this:
“A sailor goes to sea, sea, sea
To see what he could see, see, see
But all that he could see, see, see
Was the bottom of the deep blue sea, sea, sea.”
2. During worship Services
Clapping is a part of most churches style of worshipping. It usually accompanies singing and creates a beautiful melody when the congregation is clapping in unison. At schools, during the devotion exercise and also at gospel concerts clapping is also common. Clapping enlivens the spirits of the people and it is a way to get everybody involved so that they feel free to move and take part in praising God.
3. In Music Education
In music classes, clapping plays an important role in helping students to grasp what is being taught easily and quickly. Students clap to the rhythm of written music so that they will become accustomed to the tune and the variations between notes. This helps them to learn new pieces quickly.
4. During Presentations
During presentation ceremonies, people clap to congratulate achievers. Normally when a winner or someone’s name is called, it is followed by rounds of clapping from the audience to congratulate the individual. This is common at graduations, prize giving ceremonies and so forth. Even at weddings when the bride and groom are presented officially as a new couple, they are greeted with rounds of happy congratulatory claps.
5. In Music
In music such as hip hop, real hand clapping helps to compose the rhythm or the beat of the song. It is a kind of clap that was once used in older genres such as funk and disco. You can actually hear real handclaps recorded and they are more obvious in new hip hop music.
