AFR 113
Musics of Africa Spring 2013
Division II Exploring Diversity Initiative
Cross-listed MUS 113
This is not the current course catalog

This course introduces a selection of musical cultures from the geographical breadth of Africa. Following an introductory exploration of the fundamental aesthetic and social parameters governing African musical practice, we will proceed to examine in more depth regional case studies from North, South, East, West and Central Africa. Attention will be given to both traditional and urban music-making contexts, and styles covered will include Shona mbira music, Tuareg rock, West African highlife, Ba’Aka vocal polyphony and South African kwela. Through readings, writing, lecture-demonstrations, and hands-on participation, this course satisfies the EDI requirement by investigating the intersection of African music with politics, gender, advocacy, globalization and other broad themes.