Individual Research Paper About African Culture

Course Outline 1

University of Alberta Department of Music

West African Music Ensemble: Music 144, 444, 544 Winter 2016: Wednesdays 6:30pm – 9:30pm

Director: Robert Kpogo Instructors: Robert Kpogo & Dr. Wisdom Agorde Classroom: FAB 1-29 & Studio 2-27 FAB Office: TBA Phone: TBA Office Hours: TBA Email: rkpogo@telus.net or rkpogo@ualberta.ca

Theme: African Traditional Cultural Values Goals of the course: § To introduce students to the traditional music and culture of Ewe people of the Volta

region in Ghana, southern Togo and Benin through percussion, singing, and dancing. § To widen students’ musical horizons by developing new skills, which they may apply

throughout their musical lives. § To develop students’ appreciation for West African music and culture. § To present performances of this repertoire to the University and Edmonton community

at the World Music Sampler, and on other occasions as opportunities arise. Objectives: § Students will understand the history of the history of the Ewe people and their cultural

context through their community daily living. § Students will distinguish and demonstrate the sounds and the patterns of each instrument

used for a specific set of Ensemble percussion in the class. § Students will grasp the concepts and the meaning of the social and musical life style of

these people through the lectures and the discussions in the class. . § Students will deepen their knowledge of Ewe culture by completing and presenting a

research paper on Ewe tradition; (example: funeral, initiation ritual, celebration, installation ceremonies etc).

§ Students will complete weekly home practice to ensure success in evaluations by peers and instructors.

 

 

 

Course Outline 2

What we will study: § The first hour of each class will be devoted to academic material (lectures, films,

discussions), while the remainder will be devoted to singing, drumming, and dancing. § We will explore some cultural dimensions and some components of the set of the

ensemble such as bells (Gankogui), rattles (Axatse) or Ayagoe” and simple clapping of the hands “Asi kpe fofo” or “afo asi kpe” and learning how they are efficient for the ensemble.

§ We will concentrate on the polyphonic percussion singing and dancing traditions of Ewe people.

§ We will examine different selected Ewe drum sets and how they produce the percussion sounds distinctively through performance pieces such as, Gota, Agbadza, Agbekor/Atsiagbekor, Gahu, Kinka, Bobobor, Zigi, Atsorbor, Adevu. Sovu and Gogbagba. These Drums in Ewe people’s community settings are used for multidimensional purposes, sung poetry and polyrhythmic percussion music.

§ Additional presentations will support the cultural context of this music. § There will also be some improvisational games to develop students’ facility for various

aspects of African music. General Expectations: § Students must have an interest in music, sensitivity to different types of music and a

desire to deepen their appreciation of African music. § Attendance and commitment constitute an important dimension of the class. § Upon arrival in class, students are expected to assist with the set up and storage of

instruments. Please handle instruments with care. § You must arrive in class at or before the scheduled time. Missing the first half hour of the

class counts the same as missing a whole class. § Students must attend class every week, practice at home, read some related materials and

participate in performances throughout the term. § No extra credit and no makeup assignments or quizzes. Exceptions will be made for

documented medical or family emergencies. § Quizzes and other in-class assignments cannot be made-up. Students must be physically

present to take quizzes in order to receive a grade. Make-ups will only be granted in extremely extenuating circumstances. The granting of any make-ups is at the instructor’s discretion.

§ Except for ABSOLUTE EMERGENCIES (which do not include minor illnesses, vacations, cars breaking down, or other ordinary excuses), no excuses will be accepted.

§ As a student in this class, you will be treated in a friendly and respectful way and you will be expected to behave in a similar manner. Reading the newspaper, random chitchat, text/MSN messaging, leaving the class early or any other behavior that is distracting to the class will not be tolerated.

 

 

Course Outline 3

§ There will be an academic aspect of this course pertaining to a theme discussed in the class. You are responsible for all information (including handouts, announcements, videos etc.) given in class. If you miss a handout, please arrange to get a copy from a classmate. Failure to obtain information or receive announcements in class is no excuse for missing assignments or for turning assignments in late.

§ “Policy about course outlines can be found in Section 23.4(2) of the University of Alberta Calendar.” (GFC 29 SEP 2003)

§ Talking in class while others are speaking will NOT be tolerated; if necessary, the person(s) will be asked to leave. (See: University of Alberta Code of Student Behavior)

§ Attendance: Students must attend every class from 6:30-9:30 on Wednesday evenings. Attendance will be taken every week. Unexcused absences will detract significantly from the course experience and success. Only a valid doctor’s note or compassionate excuse constitutes acceptable excuses.

§ Participation: Participation doesn’t mean merely showing up. Participation means energetic and enthusiastic participation in all class activities. Students must be willing and ready to participate in all the areas of the percussions: dancing, singing and drumming. The participation grade will reflect students’ attendance and their degree of involvement during class and their contribution to the learning environment.

§ Practice: Students are expected to practice outside of class, individually or in small groups. Even though being an enjoyable (and potentially social) activity, practice is also critical to musical and group development. As the sense of community is the heart of this course, practice is essential for success. Students can expect to spend at least three hours a week practicing.

§ At the end of each class, the instructor will assign one or more exercises for you to focus on during the coming week. At the beginning of the next class, you will be asked to demonstrate these exercises. Everyone must be prepared to do so.

§ Course Materials: It is useful to bring a tape recorder and a binder to class. § Instrument use, t-shirt & Kinka CD fee: $ 90 (cash) § Performances: There will be performances in class and in public. Each student is

expected to attend performances as part of the course requirements. Note: If you are a student, you should encode your Onecard to allow you access to Studio 27. Encoding for this semester is schedule for Wednesday January 20, 2016 from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 to 3:00 pm in the Fine Arts Building room 2-15. If you do not get your card key programmed on the prescribed date, you will not have another opportunity until next semester. Level 500 Requirement § In addition to the requirements expected of students enrolling in the course at the 100 or

400 levels, World Music Ensemble course requirements at the 500 level includes a

 

 

Course Outline 4

substantial research paper (20 pages double spaced, 12 point font, 1″ margins, with references appended) on an approved topic based on the theme of the term

§ Research papers will count for 50% of the course grade, the other 50% deriving from requirements applied to undergraduate students.

Plagiarism and Cheating “The University of Alberta is committed to the highest standards of academic integrity and honesty. Students are expected to be familiar with these standards regarding academic honesty and to uphold the policies of the University in this respect. Students are particularly urged to familiarize themselves with the provisions of the Code of Student Behaviour online at www.ualberta.ca/secretariat/appeals.htm and avoid any behaviour which could potentially result in suspicions of cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation of facts and/or participation in an offence. Academic dishonesty is a serious offence and can result in suspension or expulsion from the University.” (GFC 29 SEP 2003) Academic Integrity “The University of Alberta is committed to the highest standards of academic integrity and honesty. Students are expected to be familiar with these standards regarding academic honesty and to uphold the policies of the University in this respect. Students are particularly urged to familiarize themselves with the provisions of the Code of Student Behavior (online at http://www.governance.ualberta.ca/en/CodesofConductandResidenceCommunityStandard s/CodeofStudentBehaviour.aspx ) and avoid any behavior that could potentially result in suspicions of cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation of facts and/or participation in an offence. Academic dishonesty is a serious offence and can result in suspension or expulsion from the University.” Learning and Working Environment The Faculty of Arts is committed to ensuring that all students, faculty and staff are able to work and study in an environment that is safe and free from discrimination and harassment. It does not tolerate behavior that undermines that environment. The department urges anyone who feels that this policy is being violated to: • Discuss the matter with the person whose behavior is causing concern; or • If that discussion is unsatisfactory, or there is concern that direct discussion is inappropriate or threatening, discuss it with the Chair of the Department. For additional advice or assistance regarding this policy you may contact the student ombudservice: (http://www.ombudservice.ualberta.ca/). Information about the University of Alberta Discrimination and Harassment Policy and Procedures is described in UAPPOL at https://policiesonline.ualberta.ca/PoliciesProcedures/Pages/DispPol.aspx?PID=110.

 

 

Course Outline 5

Academic Honesty: All students should consult the information provided by the Office of Judicial Affairs regarding avoiding cheating and plagiarism in particular and academic dishonesty in general (see the Academic Integrity Undergraduate Handbook and Information for Students). If in doubt about what is permitted in this class, ask the instructor. Students involved in language courses and translation courses should be aware that on-line “translation engines” produce very dubious and unreliable “translations.” Students in language courses should be aware that, while seeking the advice of native or expert speakers is often helpful, excessive editorial and creative help in assignments is considered a form of “cheating” that violates the code of student conduct with dire consequences. An instructor or coordinator who is convinced that a student has handed in work that he or she could not possibly reproduce without outside assistance is obliged, out of consideration of fairness to other students, to report the case to the Associate Dean of the Faculty. See the Academic Discipline Process. Recording of Lectures: Audio or video recording of lectures, labs, seminars or any other teaching environment by students is allowed only with the prior written consent of the instructor or as a part of an approved accommodation plan. Recorded material is to be used solely for personal study, and is not to be used or distributed for any other purpose without prior written consent from the instructor. Attendance, Absences, and Missed Grade Components: Regular attendance is essential for optimal performance in any course. In cases of potentially excusable absences due to illness or domestic affliction, notify your instructor by e-mail within two days. Regarding absences that may be excusable and procedures for addressing course components missed as a result, consult sections 23.3(1) and 23.5.6 of the University Calendar. Be aware that unexcused absences will result in partial or total loss of the grade for the “attendance and participation” component(s) of a course, as well as for any assignments that are not handed-in or completed as a result. Specialized Support & Disability Services: If you have special needs that could affect your performance in this class, please let me know during the first week of the term so that appropriate arrangements can be made. If you are not already registered with Specialized Support & Disability Services, contact their office immediately (2-800 SUB; Email ssdsrec@ualberta.ca; Email; phone 780-492-3381; WEB www.ssds.ualberta.ca).

 

 

Course Outline 6

Important Dates: January 20, 2016: Performance I (dance or percussions) in the class. February 10, 2016: Groups present research based on traditional African values February 24, 2016: Groups’ group project discussion. March 9, 2016: Performance II (dance or percussions) in the class March 23, 2016: Individual end of term research paper due April 6, 2016: WAME end of term performance at Winspear April 13, 2016 Last day of the class Evaluation § Percussions & Dance Quiz 1: Students perform dance and percussions in the class.

The quizzes will be given during class time. Students will be evaluated in the group. § Reading Quiz 1: Quizzes will be based on class readings, lectures, discussions, and

videos centered on the term’s theme “African Cultural Values” § Percussions & Dance Quiz 2: Students perform dance and percussions in the class.

The quizzes will be given during class time. Students will be evaluated in the group. § Reading Quiz 2: Quizzes will be based on class readings, lectures, discussions, and

videos centered on the term’s theme “African Cultural Values” § Mid-Term Performance: Students will be evaluated on all drum and dance pieces learnt

in the course up to this point. § Group Project: Students will research and create a story around ceremonies, festivals,

celebrations, rituals, or other special event that would be observed by the Ewe people of Ghana or Togo. The project must include a piece of creative work involving all the dances studied in class during this term. Students will compile research notes and present comprehensive findings of their research. The final evaluation will be based on the following: Integration and improvisation of instruments and movements, costume, creativity, choreography, group involvement, basic drumming, dancing and singing.

§ Individual Research Paper: Each student will submit 5-7 pages double spaced research paper on a topic of their choosing. The topic must be centered on the term’s theme “African Traditional Cultural Values” and must be directly connected to materials studied throughout the term.

§ Class Participation: Your grade will depend on regular, punctual attendance, and active, energetic involvement. We will take attendance every Wednesday. It is essential to arrive on time, as we must begin promptly at 6:30pm

Grade Distribution Percussions & Dance Quiz 1: 5% Percussions & Dance Quiz 2: 5% Reading Quiz 1: 10% Reading Quiz 2: 10%

 

 

Course Outline 7

Mid-Term Performance: 15% Group Project: 20% Individual Research Paper: 25% Class participation 10% Grades for each component will be added together at the end of the term. The final total will be translated to the University of Alberta’s letter grade system as follows:

Percentage Letter Grade Grade Point Value 100-90 A+ 4.0 86-89 A 4.0 82-85 A- 3.7 78-81 B+ 3.3 74-77 B 3.0 70-73 B- 2.7 66-69 C+ 2.3 62-65 C 2.0 58-61 C- 1.7 54-57 D+ 1.3 50-53 D 1.0 0-49 F 0.0

Learning Resources Outside of Class: Books and Recordings -Available at the bookstore, and on reverse at the Music Library (Rutherford Library, second floor):

§ David Locke’s Drum Gahu (with accompanying CD), introducing Ewe music and instruments, as well as the percussion parts of Gahu, is a basic text.

§ David Locke’s Kpegisu is a thorough description of the kpegisu drum; it is also a good introduction to the structure of Ewe12/8 music. An accompanying audiocassette is available for purchase separately.

§ John Chernoff’s African Rhythm and African Sensibility is an excellent introduction to Ewe drumming and culture.

 

 

Course Outline 8

§ For a more general treatment of Ewe check Sandra E. Greene’s Gender; Ethnicity, and Social Change on the Upper Slave Coast: A History of the Anlo-Ewe (Social History of Africa Series)

§ The Ewe People: A Study of the Ewe People in German Togo / by Jakob Spieth ; ed. by Komla Amoaku.

Other materials available at the Music Library (1) Kofi Agawu’s book African Rhythm; useful for more background. (2) Kpegisu videotapes, accompanying the book of same name. (3) A.-Kinka CD B.-“Recorded Kinka: traditional songs from Avenorpedo” (audio CD; see kinkadrum.org) (4) Gahu CD (5) (4) Agbadza CDs (6) Afa CD (7) Sankofa Dance Theatre – Summer 2002 ACCRA (MF’s personal copy –Supplied Nov 18, 2004) Other Resources: Books or Audio/Visual

§ Locke, David. “Africa/Ewe, Mande, Dagbomba, Shora, Ba Aka” Worlds of Music: An Introduction to the Music of the World’s Peoples Jeff Todd Titon, ed. 4th ed. Belmont, Ca: 2002 Schirmer/Wadswork Group. pp 87-113.

§ Ladzekpo, Alfred Kwashie and Kobla Ladzekpo. “Anlo Ewe Music in Anyako, Volta Region, Ghana” Music of Many Cultures, Elizabeth May ed. U of C Press, L.A 1980: pp 216-231

§ Locke, David; The Music of Atsiagbekor Ml 3760 L 814 1979 § Agawu, Kofi; African Rhythm; A Northern Ewe Perspective ML 3760.7 G4 A3 1995 § Avorgbedor, Daniel; Modes of Musical Continuity among the Anlo Ewe of Accra: A Study in

Urban Ethnomusicology ML 3760 A 962 1986 § May, Elizabeth; Musics of Many Cultures, Ml 3798, M 98, 1980 (Cassette) § Music of the Ewe of Ghana Sound M 1831, E9 E 94 2003 (CD) § Listen to the Silence (video) ML 350 L57 1996 § Folk Music of Ghana Sr. M 1838 G4 F666 2003 (CD) § Traditional Drumming & Dances of Ghana Sr. M 1838 G4 T 763 2003 (CD). § Traditional Women’s Music from Ghana Sr. M 1838 G4 T765 2003 (CD) § Discovering the Music of Africa (Video) ML 3760 D57 1987 § African Music in Ghana, Nketia, J.H. Kwabena ML 3760 N6 1963 § Mustapha Tettey Addy, Master Drummer from Ghana Sr. M 1838 G4 A 339 1990 (CD)

 

 

 

Course Outline 9

Instruments Instruments are stored in the far corner of Studio 27. Most drums are stored in the piano storage room, next to the instrument room. Once the class list is established, you will be able to practice on the drums, bells and rattles store in these rooms. Please Note!!!

1) Make sure you get your Onecard encoded to let you into Studio 27. ONEcard encoding will be on Wednesday January 20, 2016. There won’t be a designated room; rather, students can drop their cards off for the Receptionist (Music Department Office 3-82) that morning before 10:00 am and collect them again in the afternoon after 2:00 pm the same day.

2) Please, treat the instruments with great care. Rattles break very easily. Don’t leave

them on chairs or where they may be stepped on. Be very careful the way you use the sticks on the bells and on the drums. Play the drums with the sticks gently without damaging the skins; please try to not hit the bell or the bells too hard with the sticks without breaking neither or them.