MUSC 135 Afro-Brazilian Ensemble
Semester-long instruction with music tradition-bearers allows students to develop the technique and language to approach musical styles from outside the Western art music canon, while exposing them to alternative modes of musical pedagogy. In addition to practicing secular Afro-Brazilian drumming, including samba styles from Bahia and Rio de Janeiro, students will learn songs in Portuguese and Brazilian dialects of Yoruba. Weekly ensemble rehearsals supplemented by individual practice will culminate in an end-of-semester public performance. No prior music experience is required.