Performance study - individual instruction.

Fundamentals of conducting: gestures, rehearsal techniques, study of representative short scores, and practice leading primarily choral ensembles. Videotaping, class recital.

Studies two part counterpoint, four part harmony (part-writing, inversions, harmonization, figured bass and non-harmonic tones) and composition of simple period forms. Includes analysis, ear training, solfege, use of notation software and keyboard harmony.

This course examines selected genres and their relationships to the political and social dynamics of their respective national origins. Regional examples like highlife, soukous, chimurenga, and Fela Anikulapo-Kuti's Afro-beat will provide the basis for assessing the significance of popular music as a creative response to the African colonial and postcolonial environment. The course also discusses African hip-hop music by exploring how indigenous cultural tropes have provided the basis for its local appropriation.

Students will explore a number of musical styles and approaches in the process of creating their own extended works, with the possibility of performances at the end of the semester.

With varied repertoire, an intermediate-level women's choir providing excellent vocal training, occasional solo opportunities, and a structured sight-singing curriculum. Performs on and off campus, sometimes with men's choruses and orchestra. Previous ensemble experience is helpful, though not a prerequisite.

Studies and presents a variety of orchestra repertoire on and off campus. Multiple opportunities to perform each semester.

This course will focus on learning by ear and playing the polyrhythmic traditional music of the peoples of southern Ghana, Togo and Benin, including sections of Adjogbo and Agbekor. All students will learn drum, rattle and bell parts, some songs and some dance steps as well. Non musicians are welcome, but practicing between classes is required. The group will perform in a workshop at the end of the semester.