ThisWorldMusic

HIGHLIGHTED WORKSHOPS

Sept. 1 & Oct. 9, 2009
Worcester, MA, Schools
PD workshops for teachers

Feb. 15-19, 2010
Memphis, TN, City Schools
Artist-in-residence

Feb. 27, 2010
Boston Symphony Orchestra
PD workshop for teachers (10 PDPs)

May 24-27, 2010
University of Vermont
West African drumming (2 credits)

July 19-23, 2010
Central CT State
Graduate studies course
(2 credits or 45 PDPs)

July 30-Aug. 20, 2010
UMass Amherst in Ghana
Drum & dance field study (6 credits or 135 PDPs)

Click HERE for full workshop schedule.

Approach

ThisWorldMusic partners with universities, school districts and arts organizations around the country to offer fun, innovative continuing education courses and professional development workshops on how to teach African drumming. Course content and length can be tailored to fit the needs of educators working in a wide range of classroom settings -- from severe special needs to 12th grade honors music -- ensuring an enriching and valuable experience for all.

Curriculum

Our curriculum focuses on the drumming traditions of the Ewe (EH-vay) people of Ghana, a West African nation rich in music and dance. We provide a proven framework for incorporating West African drumming into a school music curriculum. As an approved vendor of the Center for Educator Development in the Fine Arts (CEDFA), we can also work with you to design a drumming curriculum that aligns with the nationally recognized Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Workshop topics include:

Precision drum, bell and shaker technique
Recitation of "drum language"
Stepping and sticking exercises
Traditional Ewe songs from Ghana
Integration with core curriculum

And like the drumming traditions we teach, our curriculum is not only highly structured, but spirited, fascinating...and fun!

Offerings

Given the depth and richness of these musical traditions, as well as the variety of techniques we have for teaching them, there is no one-size-fits-all course offering. Instead, workshops and courses can vary depending on the following:

Desired length
Learning objectives
Number of units/credits participants will earn

Whether you are interested in a 2-hour workshop for your school district, a weeklong residency for your arts outreach organization, or a summer-long course for your college or university, ThisWorldMusic can design a thoughtful and engaging course package to meet all your needs. Click here to download a sample workshop prospectus.

Who We Serve

6th, 7th, and 8th grade teachers looking for a way to spice up their general music classes
9th-12th grade teachers wanting to design a new general music elective
3rd, 4th, and 5th grade teachers with an eye to a more multicultural curriculum
Or any music educator looking for a fun and interesting way to grow professionally

Study Abroad in Ghana

Ever wondered what life is like in an African village? Have you dreamed of studying an indigenous culture at its source? Each summer, join us as we journey to the Dagbe Cultural Center in the scenic village of Kopeyia, Ghana, where traditions passed down for centuries are kept alive in their original form. Whether your interests are in drumming, dancing, singing or visual arts, Dagbe’s rigorous instruction and authentic natural surroundings make for an experience unlike any other. For more info, click HERE.