Course Objective: African Dance I introduces students to movement concepts and vocabulary from African Diaspora Dance technique. Students will gain a beginning understanding of how to embody African dance and aesthetic principles implicit in African orient movement. In a contemporary context, we will practice African dance traditions found on the continent and in the diaspora. We will focus on two dance traditions. Lamban, a dance and rhythm of the Jailis (Griots) from the Mende people of Mali; Kpanlogo, a contemporary recreational/social dance and rhythm rooted in the traditional rhythms of the Ga People of Ghana during African Independence. In keeping with the cultural traditions, students will dance, sing and drum.
Course Goals
To honor the body as a profound way of knowing and learning.
To embrace ideas of presence and expressiveness inside of one’s dancing, singing and playing.
To increase the student’s general knowledge, skills and execution of the Lamban and Kpanlogo techniques with particular emphasis on body alignment, rhythmic accuracy, energy, flow, coordination, flexibility, and strength To gain an understanding and execution of groundedness and other aesthetic core qualities in African dance forms.
To introduce the students to traditions specific to Mende and Ga dance and drum techniques
Percussion workshops
To increase the student's general knowledge of African drums, drum techniques and rhythms with particular emphasis on basic rhythms and songs within the African Diaspora
Course Goals
To honor the body as a profound way of knowing and learning.
To embrace ideas of presence and expressiveness inside of one’s dancing, singing and playing.
To increase the student’s general knowledge, skills and execution of the Lamban and Kpanlogo techniques with particular emphasis on body alignment, rhythmic accuracy, energy, flow, coordination, flexibility, and strength To gain an understanding and execution of groundedness and other aesthetic core qualities in African dance forms.
To introduce the students to traditions specific to Mende and Ga dance and drum techniques
Percussion workshops
To increase the student's general knowledge of African drums, drum techniques and rhythms with particular emphasis on basic rhythms and songs within the African Diaspora
- Teacher: Jeannine Osayande