Joe Boulos

Joseph Boulos is an accomplished educator, ethnomusicologist, and percussionist, specializing in the study and performance of music from West Africa, the Arab World, and the Americas. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Performance with a concentration in Drumset and World Music from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, as well as two Master's degrees – an M.M. in Jazz Pedagogy and an M.A. in Musicology – both obtained from West Virginia University.

During his undergraduate and graduate studies, he embarked on a research trip to Ghana, West Africa, where he delved into the rich traditions of the Ga, Ewe, and Dagara ethnic groups, immersing himself in the study of their traditional drum and dance techniques. Joseph remains deeply engaged in the vibrant New England music scene, contributing his talents to a variety of jazz groups, Arab ensembles, and West African drum and dance ensembles. Beyond his performances, Joseph is also an accomplished composer and writer, boasting two full-length albums, "Standard Times" and "Damnation of a Flower," available on all major music streaming platforms. Additionally, he has authored a book chapter titled "Jazz and West African Aesthetics: Applying Traditional Ghanaian Drum Ensemble Concepts to Jazz Drum Kit", slated for publication in 2025.

Currently, Joseph is serving as the sabbatical replacement for the director of the world music program at West Virginia University.

For the Fall 2023 term, Mr. Joe Boulos is teaching World Music: West African Dancing and Drumming. To register, visit: https://bit.ly/3i1doGe