MULH 261 - Music of Africa

3 Credit(s)

Gen Ed: XC credit.
This course provides an introduction to a variety of musics in Africa, exploring how diverse people make and perform music on the continent and in the African diaspora. Through topical and regional case studies such as Shona mbira music, Anlo-Ewe drumming and dancing, and a type of Nigerian popular music known as jùjú, students will have the opportunity to become familiar with particular pieces of music and the contexts, instruments, forms, and practices surrounding them. Topics may include the role of music in African communities, the relationship between music and traditional ceremonies and rituals, the politics of music during the colonial and post-colonial periods, and the globalization of African music. Special attention will be paid to the political and ethical dimensions of music making in an increasingly global world. Although some meetings will be devoted to music performance, students do not need to have any prior musical experience. Non-music majors only. Fall.