Junkanoo Costume and Music
The costumes of major Junkanoo groups have continued to grow in size and complexity. In some instances costume designers begin preparations seven to twelve months in advance. Groups strive for originality and excellence in the presentation of the theme to be carried out, in various levels of detail, by all members of the group. Costume construction takes place mainly in high – ceiling enclosures, the shacks which serve as the groups’ base camps. The interior of the shacks are open, dry, and can be locked or be seen only on parade days.
Junkanoo music is indispensable to the Junkanoo experience, feeling the event by stimulating participants and spectators alike. The basic beat and variety of rhythmic patterns in Junkanoo remains very much the same as they have always been.
However, the older practice of singing in Junkanoo has been replaced by chants, and melodic instruments such as the tuba, trumpet, saxophone, and trombone have been added to the traditional Junkanoo instrument. These new instruments which are played in tune with the traditional ones are separated physically I the good marching presentation.