clapping

A clap is the sound made by striking together two flat surfaces, as in the body parts of humans or animals. Humans clap with the palms of their hands, often in a constant drone to express appreciation or approval (see applause), but also in rhythm to match sounds in music and dance. Seals are among the animals that clap. Clapping however, is very much a group activity. Clapping on your own in a large group or audience may show your enthusiasm and approval but will likely render you socially rejected. If in doubt, wait until the people around you begin to clap and simply join in! This approach makes for a much more enjoyable experience at mimimum risk.

Some people slap the back of one hand into the palm of the other hand to signify urgency or enthusiasm; others consider it uncouth.

Perhaps the best-known koan involves (at least superficially) consideration of the act of clapping: "What is the sound of one hand clapping?"

Clapping is occasionally used as a percussion element in music, particularly in Gospel music. One composition by Steve Reich, Clapping Music, is entirely performed by clapping. The clapping patterns known as keplok are important in Javanese gamelan.

Pedagogical applications

Music students often clap the rhythm of written music to help learn the value of different notes and to get accustomed to the rhythm of new pieces. A book that is often used to demonstrate this is Rhythmic Training by Robert Starer.

Acoustics applications

Clapping can be used in acoustics to check the reverberation time of a room. The clap's decay time measures this.

Medical applications

Inhalation therapists frequently use clapping (light slaps with a cupped hand on a patient's back, chest, and under arms) to dislodge mucus from breathing passages in order to improve airflow.

See also

• Applause
• Concert etiquette
• Golf clap
• Tejime
• Chest physiotherapy
• Clapping game

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