This course explores approaches to interlocking patterns within a rhythm section by looking at funk based genres such as Afro-pop performed by artists Fela Kuti, Amadou & Mariam, Youssou N’Dour, Oumou Sangare etc, some Brazilian funk + American artists such as James Brown, Sly Stone, P-Funk and Prince, etc.

Composing, notating and arranging rhythmic grooves for the rhythm section will give the student a valuable experience while exploring and performing this syncopated music. Interested horn players will be asked to also play a rhythm-section instrument and compose horn arrangements.