This course serves as an introduction to rhythms, chants, and musical practices from Africa, Brazil, Cuba, Haiti, and the African Diaspora. Using indigenous percussion instruments from these territories, students will use their hands, mallets, and sticks to learn and play traditional folkloric rhythms and melodies. Additional conversations reveal history, culture, language, and dance. This class serves the greater Bennington community in the spring by partnering with the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, Bennington Project Independence, and the Village School of North Bennington. Near the end of term students will share their work in celebration with these organizations. Weekly practice is expected.
Learning Outcomes:
• Familiarity with percussion instruments and origins
• Demonstrate basic playing techniques on West African, Brazilian and Latin percussion instruments
• Recognition of rhythms and country of origin
• Recognition of songs, language, and chants
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 2
W 2:10PM - 4:00PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 14
Course Frequency: Every Term
Categories: 2000 , All courses , Fully In-Person , Instrumental Study , Performance , Two Credit
Tags: culture , ensemble , ethnomusicology , History , improvisation , Indigenous , instrumental study , language , Percussion , performance