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World Music: West African Music and Dance

FOR AGES 13+
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CLASS DESCRIPTION
This inaugural class for the Community Music Program and long-time offering by the WVU School of Music, focuses on teaching participants about various music cultures found in the world and their positive impact in shaping communities, traditions, and the music of today. For the Fall 2023 term, the primary area of focus is the traditional drum and dance music of Ghana, West Africa. 

During this masterclass series, led by guest instructor Joseph Boulos, you will receive detailed instruction on how to perform popular rhythms, traditional pieces, exercises to develop technique, improvisation, and how to apply these rhythms in an ensemble setting or ensemble construction. In addition, you will be introduced to the history of the region and music, which will consist of audio/visual examples, followed by an explanation of the rhythms you will be learning. No prior music experience required. 


DETAILS & DURATION

SESSION 

8 weeks

DATES

Wednesdays

September  27

October 4, 11, 18, 26

November 1, 8, 15

TIMES  

7:00 - 8:00 PM

LOCATION   Room 2070

TUITION & FEE

$140.00 + $10.00 processing fee


LEARNING OUTCOMES
After the completion of this masterclass series students will: 
  • be exposed to an indigenous music culture
  • acquire a better understanding of it through the lens of a nonwestern perspective
  • be able to play rhythms that hail from Ghana, West Africa, individually and in an ensemble setting
  • gain knowledge of the cultural history behind these West African rhythms

REMINDER

A class is usually cancelled when registration is less than five (5) participants. In case of cancellation of the class, all students already enrolled will be notified immediately. Submit your registration form as soon as possible to ensure your spot. We will reach out to you to process payment closer to the first day of the group class. Special discounts can be found on the registration form. 


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