Attention 1101, 1102, and 1103 Students!
You're invited to the CLLC's World Language Party – an intercultural celebration happening on Thursday, March 26th, from 5:30-7:00 PM in the Crane Café.
This Spring we are honored to be joined by the African Drum Ensemble in the School of Music. Learn more about the Ensemble below!
Throughout the event, you’ll have the chance to:
- Explore what intercultural competence means and why it matters
- Connect with your professors and fellow language learners
- Learn more about majors, minors, study abroad, and scholarships
- Enjoy free food and a chance to win fun prizes!
Registration is required!
If you have questions, please contact Julia Mains.
This event is presented by the Center for Languages, Literatures and Cultures and is co-sponsored by the Office of International Affairs' Area Studies Centers.
The African Drumming Ensemble
Africa’s contribution to many of the world’s musical cultures has been undeniable, though often overlooked. From Brazilian Samba, to Cuban Salsa, to Jazz, Blues, Hip-Hop, and Rock n’ Roll in the US, the rhythms, melodies, and spirit of African music are often credited as being a primary source. Now, virtually anywhere in the world, “African drumming” ensembles can be found, in schools and local communities, serving both as sites of diasporic (re)connection to the continent and as a tool of promoting cultural awareness of Africa. “African drumming” has also proven to be an effective model for building community by promoting close listening, group participation, and collective understanding.
Students in the African Drumming Ensemble learn basic techniques of Mande drumming instruments (Djembe and dunduns), and gain familiarity with the Mande drumming repertoires found across West Africa (Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Cote d’Ivoire, The Gambia, etc.). An emphasis is placed on “groove”, and learning to collectively weave together interlocking drum parts, to create intricate polyrhythmic fabrics. Anyone on campus is welcome and encouraged to join, regardless of background, prior experience, and skill level. There is a place for you in this ensemble! The university does have its own collection of instruments, but students are welcome to bring their own.