MMED 607 Understanding Rhythm Through West African Culture

College of Performing Arts School of Music

3 credits 45.0 hours
600 level graduate course

Educators are presented with alternatives in rhythm education while focusing on the music and dance traditions of West Africa. The rhythms will be presented in both their traditional forms and in simpler forms. The simplified forms will make the different music, dances, and cultures more accessible to the younger student. Students will learn how to simplify the complex traditional rhythms and dance patterns while maintaining the integrity of the tradition. Although drumming and dance will be the focus, singing, xylophone playing, and cultural study will also be incorporated to give teachers a complete package to bring to their students. Participants will strengthen their skills in creativity, teamwork, non-verbal communication, listening, and movement while having great fun. Many of the MENC National Standards will be addressed including: singing alone and with others, performing on instruments alone and with others, improvising melodies, understanding relationships between music and other disciplines, and understanding music in relation to history and culture.

This course is not repeatable for credit.