Difference between pages "Study African Arts and Culture in Ghana" and "University of Alberta Middle Eastern and North African Music Ensemble"

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'''The Ghana Program is ON for Summer 2013! <br> Dates: July 4 to August 11 2013.''' <br> '''9 credits (3 courses) in just 5+ weeks!'''<br> Please contact us immediately if you are interested and we'll put you on our lists!  A [[Media:Ghana_brochure.pdf | program brochure]] is available.
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'''This course will be available for credit in Winter 2022.''' Enroll using [https://www.beartracks.ualberta.ca/ Bear Tracks].
<br> '''NEW:  Scholarships are now available, $1250 per University of Alberta student, to the first 14 who apply. See below and apply soon!'''
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The course is not available in 2020-21.
  
Contact [mailto:Xiao.Zhang@ualberta.ca Xiao Zhang] tel. (780) 492-1578 or [mailto:caroline.lawson@ualberta.ca Caroline Lawson] in [http://www.goabroad.ualberta.ca Education Abroad] or [mailto:goabroad@ualberta.ca email Education Abroad] or call +1 (780) 492-6040 for general inquiries regarding study abroad and the application process. Contact [mailto:michael.frishkopf@ualberta.ca Michael Frishkopf] for program content. See 2010 information below for a representative set of course syllabi.
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If you are enrolled (or on a waitlist) be sure to [https://forms.gle/R6gVUC1hD5NdddnL9 fill out this form] prior to the first meeting. The first meeting will be for consent, when I will ask everyone to sing or play something. Only those enrolled for credit need attend. The second meeting will be our first proper rehearsal.
  
''Short URL for this page:  ''http://bit.ly/GhanaMusic''
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Sign up for the '''[http://www.mailman.srv.ualberta.ca/mailman/listinfo/mename MENAME email list]'''.
  
= General information =
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New members [[MENAME prospective students | click here]] for more information about the group.  We meet in Studio 27, in the Fine Arts Building, Thursdays at 6:30 - those not taking the course for credit can generally come at 7pm. [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/viewer?mid=1x6RfXWiHcvIw6DzghVTPBk6Ddow&ll=53.4173823883664%2C-113.5519028&z=11 Here's a map].
  
This 9 credit summer study abroad program in Ghana, entitled '''"West African Music, Dance, Society, and Culture"''', comprises social science, humanities, and performing arts components, and is formally equivalent to three semester-long University of Alberta courses, ''available at both undergraduate and graduate levels''.  '''There are no prerequisites for these courses, or for the program as a whole.'''
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----
 
 
The program aims to provide an international, life-transforming educational experience, grounded in study of music and dance (both traditional and popular), yet valuable to students enrolled in programs across arts, sciences, humanities, education, and social sciences.  The Ghana program offers a grounded global perspective relevant to a wide range of disciplines and career trajectories; previous years' students came from a diversity of faculties, including Arts/Social Sciences, Science, Education, Business, Nursing, and Pharmacy.  Thus studies of music and dance in Ghana are not intended as merely ends in themselves, but rather offer performative and participatory strategies for intercultural understanding, complemented by study of politics, history, religion, linguistics, literature, drama, economy, women's studies, and development--in the classroom, on the road, and in the field.
 
 
 
Formally the program includes three courses, of 3 credits each:
 
 
 
* '''West African Music Ensemble''' (Music 144/244, 544).  A practicum developing basic skills required for performance and understanding of traditional Ghanaian music, song, and dance, including music of the Ga, Asanti, and other groups, but with a special focus upon Ewe music traditions of the Volta Region. Includes study on the University of Ghana campus, in a traditional Ewe village, and in various locations throughout Ghana. ''Note: if you require non-junior credit you can substitute 244 for 144.''
 
 
 
* '''Introduction to Ethnomusicology:  The ethnomusicology of Ghanaian music and dance''' (Music 365, 565) Scholarly study of traditional and popular performance of Ghana, treating the form and meaning of traditional music and dance in cultural contexts, linking music and social identity, and reading Ghanaian culture, politics, history, and religion through music.  The music, culture, society, and history of the Ewes will be included, so as to harmonize with the other two courses.  The course culminates with the practical experience of doing ethnomusicology in Dagbamete.
 
 
 
* '''West African culture, language, and society''' (Middle Eastern and African Studies 300, 500).  This course comprises a multidisciplinary investigation of West African culture (possibly including study of literature, linguistics, anthropology, sociology, history, political science, religious studies, economics, or other disciplines), plus a practical introduction to the Ewe language, in conversation and through its oral literary tradition.
 
 
 
These three courses continue in parallel throughout three program components, of roughly 10-12 days each:  (1) ''classroom study'' at the [http://www.ug.edu.gh/ University of Ghana's beautiful Legon campus], on the outskirts of Ghana's capital, Accra; (2) ''travel'' throughout Ghana, with attention to natural, historical and cultural landmarks, and varied opportunities to observe and study music and dance; (3) ''cultural immersion'' in a small Ewe village ([http://www.dagbamete.net/ Dagbamete]) located in southeastern Ghana, with opportunities for fieldwork and intensive study of music, dance, and language.
 
 
 
''Music and dance performance is central, but no musical experience or talent is required to succeed (only a willingness to try!), and '''there are no prerequisites for any of the three courses'''.'' In 2007 and 2008, [[Optional long-weekend field trips | long-weekend field trips]] provided additional musical-cultural perspectives. Starting in 2009 we rolled several of these trips into a single continuous week of travel. Field trips typically include visits to Cape Coast, Elmina, Kakum, Kumasi, Tamale, and [http://wikitravel.org/en/Mole_National_Park Mole National Park] where it is possible to view a wide assortment of wildlife. We undertake 2-3 day drumming and dancing workshops in many places we visit, such as Kokrobite, Kumasi, and Tamale, focussing on local musical culture (Ga, Asante, and Dagomba, respectively).
 
 
 
In our more sedentary moments, we'll be studying primarily on the beautiful Legon campus of the University of Ghana (Legon is a suburb of Accra, and a bit cooler too, where the rolling inland hills begin) and in the Volta-region village of Dagbamete, approximately two weeks in each location.
 
 
 
Here's a [http://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?hl=en&geocode=&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=108906578218077644238.000466c231101f447cd3d&z=7 map] on which you can find many of the places we'll visit: Legon, Accra, Kokrobite, Cape Coast, Kakum, Kumasi, Tamle (in the north). Kokrobite is around 80 kilos west of Accra. Elmina and Kakum are short drives from Cape Coast.  In the Volta Region:  Akatsi (a few kilos from our village, Dagbamete), and Ho,  the capital of the Volta Region. 
 
 
 
For a program brochure, please  [[Media:Ghana_brochure.pdf | click here]].
 
 
 
To communicate with past or prospective participants, join our '''[http://www.facebook.com/groups/edit.php?members&new&saved&gid=57104916344#/group.php?gid=57104916344 Facebook group]
 
 
 
[[Preparing for the Ghana program | Here are some guidelines and lists to help you prepare for travel]].
 
 
 
= '''Application procedures for summer 2013'''=
 
 
 
== Schedule ==
 
 
 
''Please note:  you must arrive on July 4 or before, and you must not leave until August 11 at the earliest.''  Extensions outside these dates are fine, and in fact encouraged; many students find post-program travel especially rewarding, as they know the lay of the land and how to traverse it, and have made good friends who become suitable travel companions besides.  If you're interested in specific kinds of travel or study in West Africa please let us know and we can help you make suitable arrangements.  Typically it's also possible to make stop-overs in Europe or elsewhere, often at no extra cost.
 
 
 
The following schedule is somewhat tentative (pending information about local events; for instance, we may try to rearrange so as to be in Kumasi for the Eid festival on August 8.), except for beginning and end dates.
 
 
 
July 4 - arrive in Ghana (you must be in Accra by July 4; you may wish to arrive earlier and travel or study on your own before the program begins)<br>
 
July 5 - program begins with campus orientation<br>
 
July 6 - Accra tour<br>
 
July 7 - morning church and fieldwork; possible outing to Ashaiman in afternoon<br>
 
July 8-11  - week 1 (4 days) of classes at UG<br>
 
July 12-14 - long weekend at Kokrobite<br>
 
July 15-18  - week 2 (4 days) of classes at UG<br>
 
July 19-21 - long weekend at Cape Coast<br>
 
July 22-23- two days of UG classes (perhaps culminating in a party if resources allow...)<br>
 
July 24-July 31 - Ghana tour (Kumasi, Tamale, Mole):  Wed to Wed, by bus<br>
 
Aug 1 - Aug 11 Dagbamete immersion:  Thurs to Sun, following week to Saturday<br>
 
Aug 11:  program ends Sunday Aug 11 (you must not depart Ghana before this date; you may however opt to stay longer, and travel in Ghana or beyond)<br>
 
 
 
== Projected costs ==
 
 
 
''Basic costs:'' (NB: these are 2012 estimates, to be revised in the coming weeks - but the program is essentially the same)
 
 
 
* University of Alberta tuition (9 credits, 3 courses): $1,894.87 CAD (for Canadian citizens or permanent residents; [mailto:Xiao.Zhang@ualberta.ca inquire] for other statuses)<br>
 
* Instructional support fee (covers all room and board during village stay, plus all field trip travel and workshops/performances, plus University of Ghana affiliation fee covering campus services such as internet and library): $800.00 CAD<br>
 
* Room at University of Ghana and hotels during field trips (village stay is covered by your instructional support fee; see above): Approx. $415.00 CAD<br>
 
* Board throughout, except during village stay (where food is covered by your instructional support fee): Approx. $442.00 CAD (note: it's certainly possible to economize here)<br>
 
* Education Abroad Application Fee: $250.00 CAD<br>
 
* '''Program Total: Approx. $3,801.87 CAD not including airfare''' (for Canadian citizens or permanent residents; [mailto:Xiao.Zhang@ualberta.ca inquire] for other statuses)<br>
 
 
 
''Note:''
 
* Students are  responsible for additional costs, including visa fees, vaccinations, medications (malaria medication is essential), medical insurance, books (most readings are electronic), supplies, gifts, entertainment and other incidental expenses.
 
* Airfare is considerably cheaper if you can arrange to fly out of a major hub (e.g. Toronto, NYC). You may also wish to economize by combining this trip with travel elsewhere, via stopovers in Europe, Cairo, etc., before or after the program.
 
* An additional $500 CAD in spending money is recommended.<br>
 
* '''Scholarships ($1250 per student) are available on a first-come first-served basis. Only 14 are available, so apply soon!'''. See below...
 
 
 
== Student support: scholarships and loans ==
 
  
* '''NEW''':  The 2013 West African Music, Dance, Society, and Culture program in Ghana has been approved for funding under the 2013 Group Education Abroad Award funding competition. A total of 14 students are guaranteed to receive $1,250 each in support of their participation in the West African Music, Dance, Society, and Culture program.
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'''MENAME (Middle Eastern and North African Music Ensemble) (Music 148, 448, 548)'''<br>
  
* ''Loans''. Students may also qualify for student loans.<br>
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short URL for this page: ''http://bit.ly/MENAME'' or ''http://bit.ly/mename'' or "http://bit.ly/Mename"
  
== Eligibility, Credits, Transfers and non-UofA students ==
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= Overview =
  
The program is open to all adults (i.e. you must be at least 18 years old to enroll).
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The University of Alberta Middle Eastern and North African Music Ensemble (MENAME) is a University of Alberta course and a community group for the study and performance of music from Arabic, Turkish, Persian, Berber, Hebrew, Nubian, Kurdish, Armenian, and other musical-linguistic communities of the Middle East and North Africa, as well as fusions thereof. Our aim is to learn and appreciate these musical traditions, to use music as a gateway towards broader intercultural understanding, and as a means of forming and maintaining a harmonious intercultural musical community here in Edmonton, bridging all divisions, especially those of ethnicity, nationality, language, and religion. The course combines academic and performance components. Our repertoire covers various gamuts, from specialized "high art" to participatory folk, from local to regional, from old to new. Besides studying pieces from the region (mostly songs), we also focus on regional musical concepts (tonal and rhythmic) in theory and practice, through a series of in-class exercises developing the ears in new directions.
  
The program comprises 3 UofA courses. These will appear on transcripts for UofA students like any other course. They will receive 9 course credits that may apply towards their programs.
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The group gathers diverse members: musicians interested in traditions of the region; university students studying the region's culture, society and history; members of language communities; and anyone else who wishes to participate. MENAME was founded by director Michael Frishkopf in 2005 as the Arab Music Group; its scope has gradually expanded to include the Middle East and North Africa.  
  
Non-University of Alberta students can also enroll. In order to do so, they must first enroll in [https://www.registrar.ualberta.ca/ro.cfm?id=33 University of Alberta open studies], prior to enrollment in the programNon-University of Alberta students are responsible for ensuring that program credit transfers to their home institution and programs, if desired. They can receive official transcripts from the University of Alberta documenting completion of the program.
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Technically the course is listed under University of Alberta's "open studies" program, and thus is accessible to anyone who wants to enroll. And everyone interested is encouraged to do so. Neither musical training, nor knowledge of musical notation, nor the ability to play an instrument, nor fluency in regional languages is a prerequisiteAll I ask is that you make a firm commitment to the group for one full year, and participate with energy and enthusiasm.
  
''Note that the Open Studies 6 course weight limit does not apply to this program. You will be enrolled in a total of 9 course weights (= 3 courses) for the summer term.''
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Besides regular meetings, there are also various occasions to perform in public. Minimally, I expect all group members to participate in the final concert (see performances link, below).
  
== Travel, Health, and other practical considerations ==
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The course provides 3 course weights per semester and combines performance and academics, the latter including:
* Students are responsible for their own travel arrangements to Ghana.  Costs differ dramatically depending on point of origin, and many students like to arrive early or depart late, in order to facilitate additional travel in Ghana. Rather than organize students as a single posse, everyone normally makes his or her own travel arrangements. Routing is usually via Europe, though some direct flights may depart from the USA.  The University of Ghana assists in transporting students from the airport to their lodgings on the day before the program begins.  If enough students plan to travel together from Edmonton we may be able to make group travel arrangements.
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* readings and films
* Vaccinations and a Visa are required for travel to Ghana. 
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* weekly short lectures, films or analytical listening
* See [[Preparing for the Ghana program]] for lots of advice.
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* a midterm and final, including performance and academic components
  
== Application process ==
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= Meeting place and time =
You need to meet with a study abroad advisor by March 2 to complete the Summer Abroad Application. Contact [mailto:Xiao.Zhang@ualberta.ca Xiao Zhang], (780) 492-1578.
 
  
== For more info...==
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We meet every Thursday evening, fall and winter terms, usually from 6:30 to 9:30 pm (but sometimes we start later, or end earlier - join the [http://www.mailman.srv.ualberta.ca/mailman/listinfo/mename mailing list] to be in the know), in [https://drive.google.com/open?id=1x6RfXWiHcvIw6DzghVTPBk6Ddow&usp=sharing Studio 27], Fine Arts Building (FAB) of the University of Alberta campus (between the Timms centre and HUB mall, and next to the bus stop). [https://drive.google.com/open?id=1x6RfXWiHcvIw6DzghVTPBk6Ddow&usp=sharing Studio 27] is just north of the FAB central stairwell, on the second floor. It's on your left as you cross the breezeway from HUB mall to FAB. All are welcome!
  
Have questions? Please read over materials for 2010 below, as 2012's will closely resemble them. Still have questions?  Please contact [mailto:Xiao.Zhang@ualberta.ca Xiao Zhang] (780) 492-1578 in Education Abroad for inquiries regarding study abroad, and [mailto:michael.frishkopf@ualberta.ca Michael Frishkopf] for inquiries regarding program content, or visit [http://www.goabroad.ualberta.ca Education Abroad].
 
  
= Past programs, testimonials.... =
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[https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/viewer?mid=1x6RfXWiHcvIw6DzghVTPBk6Ddow MAP of key locations (Studio 27, Convocation Hall, etc.)]
  
Those considering attending in 2013 might like to examine programs for previous years, below.
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= For prospective members =
  
2008-2010 groups carried out original field research in a Ghanaian village.  Read the results of our study here: 
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'''[[MENAME prospective students]]''' click here.
'''[[Musical Change in Dagbamete | Music and change in Dagbamete]]'''
 
  
Here's a [[Media:Nursing.pdf | testimonial]] from a 2008 summer student enrolled in the University of Alberta's Faculty of Nursing (click and scroll down a bit...).
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= For members =
  
Student blogs from Summer 2009:
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Modify subscriptions to our '''[http://www.mailman.srv.ualberta.ca/mailman/listinfo/mename MENAME email list]'''<br>
 +
Join our '''[http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=23675020746 MENAME Facebook group]''' (Note:  log into Facebook before clicking)
  
[http://jillfulton-3rsghana.blogspot.com/ Jill]
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== Course outlines and schedules ==
  
[http://agbenyega.blogspot.com/ Ellis]
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[https://www.artsrn.ualberta.ca/ccewiki/index.php/MENAME_course_outline_Winter_2022 Click here for the winter 2022 course outline]
  
[http://andreaaughana.blogspot.com/ Andrea]
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[https://www.artsrn.ualberta.ca/ccewiki/index.php/MENAME_course_outline_Winter_2020 Click here for the winter 2020 course outline]
  
...and Summer 2010:
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[https://www.artsrn.ualberta.ca/ccewiki/index.php/MENAME_course_outline_Winter_2019 Click here for the winter 2019 course outline]
  
[http://kendrawenttoghana.blogspot.com/ Kendra]
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[https://www.artsrn.ualberta.ca/ccewiki/index.php/MENAME_course_outline_Winter_2018 Click here for the winter 2018 course outline]
  
[http://courtneywenttoghana.blogspot.com/2010/09/kejite-market-in-kumasi.html  Courtney]
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[http://bit.ly/mename16F Click here for the fall 2016 course outline]
  
[http://nick-studyabroadghana.blogspot.com/ Nick]
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[https://www.artsrn.ualberta.ca/ccewiki/index.php?title=MENAME_course_outline_Winter_2016 Click here for the winter 2016 course outline]
  
[http://kenziegoes.blogspot.com/ Kenzie]
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[[MENAME assignments and class schedule 2012 | Click here for the fall 2012 course outline]]
  
[http://katdanser.wordpress.com/ Kat]
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== Repertoire ==
  
[http://roscoghana.blogspot.com/ Ross]
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'''[[MENAME repertoire | MENAME repertoire, by year (INCLUDING CURRENT REPERTOIRE) ]]'''
  
 +
[http://www.fwalive.ualberta.ca/~michaelf/MENAME/NEE%20UCLA%20tapes%20-%20mp3s/ Near Eastern Ensemble tapes] (located off-wiki)
  
Browse photos from previous programs here:
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[[Repertoire content]] (located on-wiki)
  
[[Experiencing Ghana, summer 2007]]
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[[Suggested repertoire | Suggestion box]].  Please feel free to add...
  
[[Experiencing Ghana, summer 2008]]
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[[Middle Eastern Dance pieces]]
  
= 2010 program and application procedures =  
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== MENAME performance programs: past and present ==
  
 +
Links contain schedules; each performance is linked to its program.
  
The 2010 programs ran from July 1 to August 8.
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'''[[MENAME Final performance Winter 2019]]'''
  
'''The original application deadline, March 15, has been extended,''' as the program is currently underenrolled. If you plan to go, please contact Caroline Lawson immediately and no later than the week of April 12. 
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'''[https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ssp3fW6qEXihbAg1BxQ1g4GV-43Y6TSf Performance Winter 2018]'''<br>
  
 +
'''[[Announcements Fall 2012| Performances (Fall 2012)]]''' <br>
  
'''For applications, contact [mailto:caroline.lawson@ualberta.ca Caroline Lawson], caroline.lawson@ualberta.ca.
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'''[[Announcements 2011-012|Performances (2011-12)]]'''<br>
Tel: 780 492 6215
 
Fax: 780 492 6213'''
 
  
== Schedule ==
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'''[[Announcements 2010-011|Performances (2010-11)]]'''<br>
  
Anticipated program dates in Ghana are Friday July 2nd (you must arrive in Ghana by Thursday July 1 or earlier) to Saturday August 7th, inclusive (you must not depart Ghana before August 8th).  Our tentative schedule:
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'''[[Announcements 2009-010|Performances (2009-10)]]'''<br>
  
* Thursday, July 1:  arrival in Accra (unless you've elected to spend some time in Ghana before the program starts); move into International Student Hostel dorms at the University of Ghana, Legon
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'''[[Announcements 2008-09|Performances (2008-09)]]'''
* Friday, July 2:  meet at University of Ghana Guest Center (11 am) for meeting and greeting, program overview, lunch, campus orientation and tour
 
* Saturday, July 3:  Accra tour
 
* Sunday, July 4: fieldwork in church; lecture on benevolent (funeral) associations; fieldtrip to Ashaiaman to participate in a funeral association performance by Afife (ageshe/adzida music)
 
* Monday, July 5 - Thursday, July 8:  4 days classes at University of Ghana (Legon). Possible excursion Thursday afternoon.
 
* Friday, July 9 - Sunday, July 11:  3 days - Buduburam refugee camp research, and Kokrobite musical beach adventure (30 km from Accra)
 
* Monday, July 12 - Thursday, July 15: 4 days classes at University of Ghana (Legon). Possible excursion Thursday afternoon.
 
* Friday, July 16 - Sunday, July 18:  3 days: Cape Coast, Elmina, and Kakum forest tour (historical and ecological), about a 2-3 hour drive from Legon.  Fante and Congolese popular musics.
 
* Monday, July 19 - Tuesday, July 20: 2 days classes at University of Ghana (Legon).
 
* Wednesday, July 21 - Wednesday, July 28:  8 day tour to Kumasi and Tamale, including lectures and workshops in both locations. Optional excursion to Mole National Park (wildlife).
 
* Thursday, July 29 - Saturday, August 7:  10 day Dagbamete village stay (cultural immersion, fieldwork, and intensive music/dance instruction), culminating with final performance and party on August 6
 
* Saturday August 7: free day - wrap up your research, say your goodbyes...
 
* Sunday August 8: depart Dagbamete for airport (transportation included) or further travel in Ghana
 
  
In sum, we'll stay in the University of Ghana hostel from the evening of July 1 to the morning of July 21, then travel around Ghana, and return for one more night at the hostel on July 28), before departing for Dagbamete the morning of the 29th.  (During our Ghana travel you can leave your bags locked at the hostel for a small fee.)
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'''[[Announcements 2007-08|Performances (2007-08)]]'''
  
'''Note that you must schedule your air travel so as to arrive in Accra by the evening of July 1, and must not leave Ghana before August 8.''' However you are certainly encouraged to extend your stay beyond the end of the formal program; many students did so in 2009, while others wished they had! (it wasn't always possible to extend the ticket later, as summer is "high season"). Or you may prefer to arrive in Ghana ''before'' the program starts, in order to do some traveling on your own. In that case you'll still move into the dorms on July 1st, and meet us on campus on the morning of July 2. If you want to avail yourself of pre-paid transportation to and from the airport, you should arrive on the evening of July 1, and depart in the late afternoon on July 8. However transport to and from the airport is not difficult to arrange.
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[[Waslas | Other past concert programs]]
  
== Preparation ==  
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= Videos and audios online =  
  
[[Preparing for the Ghana program | Here are some guidelines and lists to help you prepare for travel]].
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[https://vimeo.com/album/5882561 Vimeo collection] (password: emanem)
  
Unless you're bringing a laptop (a good idea if you can swing it) or e-reader (you can read pdf's on Kindle), you should print out online reading assignments prior to departure.
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[https://vimeo.com/24799010 At the Winspear]
  
== Syllabi ==
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[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbas8HeTEak&t=245s  A night (mainly) in Tunisia!] (the 2018 MENAME concert)
  
Note: the syllabi will be updated frequently until June 2010.
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[https://soundcloud.com/uofamusic/sets/2014-15-review-for-ckua/s-jMbnJ Soundcloud concerts]
  
[[Ghana 2010 syllabi]]
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= Other online resources =
 +
== MENAME recordings ==
  
 +
[[YouTube videos]] of MENA area songs
  
 +
Performances by MENAME:
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* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ke-IndJ9Nm0 Benefit for Edmonton Interfaith, Jan 31, 2016]
 +
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z87_jOQPex0 Fall sampler 2013]
  
== Undergraduate and graduate credit ==
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== Regional music links (with audio, notations, bios, etc.) ==  
  
'''Please note that the program is available for both undergraduate and graduate credit'''.  At the undergraduate level you will enroll in: Music 144 (or 244, 344, 444 depending on whether you've taken this course, West African Music Ensemble, before), Music 365 (Introduction to Ethnomusicology, and MEAS 300 (Middle Eastern and African Studies).  At the graduate level you will enroll in: Music 544 (West African Music Ensemble), Music 565 (Area Studies in Ethnomusicology), MEAS 500 (Topic in Middle Eastern and African Studies).  The latter two courses emphasize advanced, critical reading, independent field research, and ethnomusicological analysis and writing.  Students pursuing an MA in ethnomusicology could use these courses to develop a corpus of research and knowledge sufficient for the preparation of an MA thesis, or simply to develop a secondary area of ethnomusicological expertise.
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[[Arab music URLs]]
  
== Scholarships ==
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[[Turkish music URLs]]
  
Albertan students will each receive a $750 scholarship from the government of Alberta, up to 14 scholarships total.  It is not yet clear whether scholarships are available for other students; you are encouraged to seek out sources of funding from your own institution, province, or state.
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[[Iranian music URLS]]
  
== Transfers and non-UofA students ==
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[[Kurdish music URLs]]
  
The program is open to all adults (i.e. you must be at least 18 years old to enroll).
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[[Israeli music URLs]]
The program comprises 3 UofA courses, and UofA students can enroll in these and receive credits that may apply towards their programs.
 
  
Non-University of Alberta students must enroll in [https://www.registrar.ualberta.ca/ro.cfm?id=33 University of Alberta open studies] prior to enrollment in the program.
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[[Dance URLs]]
Non-University of Alberta students are responsible for ensuring that credit transfers to their home institution and program.
 
  
''Note that the Open Studies 6 course weight limit does not apply to this program.  You will be enrolled in a total of 9 course weights (= 3 courses) for the summer term.''
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== Theory, ear training, practica ==
  
== Costs ==
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=== MENA music theory and practice ===  
  
'''Approximate costs in 2010 (subject to change depending on enrollments):'''
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MENA = Middle East and North Africa...what follows are the relevant links for music theory.
* Education Abroad application fee
 
* Fees for visa
 
* Cost of vaccines, medicines (anti-malarial is a must)
 
* Books, supplies, clothing, equipment, etc.
 
* Tuition for Canadian students for the 3 courses : $1743.56 (more for International students) [paid in advance]
 
* Program fee (includes Dagbamete room/board and transportation, Internet use on campus, airport pickup, certain workshops): $750  [paid in advance]
 
* Housing on campus (July 1 - 20): approx $300  [paid in advance]
 
* Food during campus portion of trip (July 1 - 20): approx. $200 [paid individually in Ghana]
 
* Ghana tour (transport, food, lodging, activities):  approx. $250 [paid individually in Ghana]
 
* Flight: around $2600 from Edmonton to Accra, significantly less from eastern Canada or US. Note that it may cost significantly less to purchase multiple roundtrip tickets with a stopover in Europe, but in this case you should leave a day or more between flights to ensure connections. [arranged and paid individually]
 
* Long weekend fieldtrips (two excursions):  about $100 each, or $200 total (most students won't want to miss these) [paid individually in Ghana]
 
* Optional spending money for souvenirs, clothing, drums (a drum costs about $50, and can be brought home as an extra bag), excursions, gifts....
 
  
'''Notes:'''
+
[https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cJa88-6I1cfQT6P7DP7plCqyWn0CoSCd?usp=sharing Michael's resources]: PDF files providing basic maqamat and iqa`at (rhythms) for Arab music of Egypt/Levant (with a separate folder for Maghrib)
  
* Room and board during fieldtrips is figured at $25/day.  These are conservative figures. In Ghana, it is possible to procure a satisfying meal for under $2 and lodging will often be $5/night or even less. But in some situations (e.g. the wonderful restaurant at Kokrobite, where dinner will be about $12, or the Guest Center on campus, where a meal's about $5), costs will be higher.
+
[http://www.maqamworld.com MaqamWorld]: extensive treatment of maqamat, instruments, forms, and iqa`at (durub) (for Egypt and the Levant only)
* ATMs are plentiful in Ghana's larger cities, and on the campus, so you need not bring a lot of cash.  Please see [http://www.fwalive.ualberta.ca/mediawiki/index.php?title=Preparing_for_the_Ghana_program#Financial advice on financial preparations].
 
  
= 2009 program and application procedures =
+
[https://offtonic.com/theory/book/7-9.html Offtonic presentation of Arabic music theory]
  
== 2009 schedule ==
+
[http://maqamlessons.com/ Maqam Lessons]:  an excellent theoretical overview, with practical lessons and illustrative analyses
  
Following your '''arrival in Ghana by Thursday July 2''', the 2009 program will commence on Friday July 3, lasting a total of 33 days until its conclusion on August 3 (departure August 4), including  3 days of orientation (July 3-5), 8 days of classroom lectures (July 6-9, July 13-16), 12 days of travel throughout Ghana (July 10-12, July 17-24), and 10 days' residence in a small Ewe-speaking Ghanaian village (Dagbamete), located in Ghana's Volta Region, for field study and musical/linguistic/cultural immersion (July 25-Aug 3). Unless you've made other arrangements, you'll be leaving Dagbamete on August 4th, and can catch a flight in the afternoon or evening on that day if you wish. It's also possible to arrange to stay in Dagbamete longer, or to spend time touring elsewhere in Ghana if you wish.  But '''please do not plan to leave Ghana before August 4th.'''
+
[http://www.alsiadi.com/maqamat.html Alsiadi maqamat]
  
The Ghana portion of the program will be shorter in 2009 than in 2008, but will provide the same number of creditsYou are welcome to plan your trip as you like, arriving before the program begins, or remaining in Ghana afterward, in order to extend your stay.   Because the Ghana portion is shorter, I will assign some readings for you to complete before your arrival in Ghana.  Feel free to do these assignments at any time before the program commences.
+
[http://www.khafif.com/rhy/ Ja's Middle Eastern Rhythms]: detailed treatment of rhythms (you'll find dozens!) featuring a [http://www.khafif.com/rhy/rhygen.html remarkable MIDI rhythm generator] that will play any rhythm notated using special symbols to indicate the various drum strokes
  
[[Media:Ghana_2009_schedule.pdf | Click here for 2009 schedule]]
+
[http://www.shira.net/advice/learning/zills-44.htm Finger cymbal patterns]
  
== Preparation for Ghana ==
+
[http://babayagamusic.com/Music/oriental-dance-rhythm-diagrams-and-descriptions.htm Rhythms]
  
[[Preparing for the Ghana program | Here are some guidelines and lists to help you prepare for travel]].
+
[https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1KoxrTDYG0VBM-MEJpnJ1Cn_Tt4ojrdVw&ll=25.83264822920758%2C34.79211332712407&z=4 Maqam places]. The word maqam can mean:  a literary genre, a saint's shrine, a musical mode, or a place or rank. And in fact many maqam names come from places. This map shows some of them.  (Others -- along with the names of scale degrees -- are derived from the Persian numbers, coming ultimately from Indo-European:  yek, doh, se, chehar...)
  
Unless you're bringing a computer or e-reader, you should print out online reading assignments prior to departure.
+
=== Western music theory training ===
  
== 2009 Program syllabi ==
+
[http://musictheory.net/ introductory music theory], simple introduction to Western music notation, for those who'd like to learn.
  
[[Ghana 2009 syllabi | Here are the syllabi for 2009.]]
+
[http://www.teoria.com Tutorials in music theory]:  more advanced training in Western music notation and music theory.
  
Because the Ghana portion of the program is shorter than last year, you will be expected to complete a number of reading assignments prior to travel.  Please take note of readings on the syllabi that you should complete before the program begins, namely:
+
=== Instruments ===
  
* [http://www.fwalive.ualberta.ca/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ghana_2009_syllabi#Before_July_2.2C_please_read_the_following Pre-trip readings for Music 365/565]
+
[https://oudmigrations.com/ Oud Migrations]
* [http://www.fwalive.ualberta.ca/mediawiki/index.php?title=Ghana_2009_syllabi#Before_July_2.2C_please_do_the_following Pre-trip readings and other activities for MEAS 300/500]
 
  
You will prepare final papers after returning from Ghana - papers will be due at the end of August.
+
[https://issuu.com/elmasrylatif/docs/encyclopedia_of_the_nay_in_egypt All about the nay (reed flute)]
  
For now, please learn to locate all the countries of Africa and their capitals using [http://www.lizardpoint.com/fun/geoquiz/afrquiz.html this interactive map quiz for countries], and [http://www.lizardpoint.com/fun/geoquiz/afrcapquiz.html this one for capitals].
+
[http://www.georgedimitrisawa.com/the-qanun George Sawa's qanun (plucked zither) page]
  
== 2009 Costs and scholarships ==
+
[http://www.oudforguitarists.com/ Oud for Guitarists], a site designed to teach oud and Arab music to guitarists
  
'''[[Ghana program costs in 2009]]'''
+
[https://danielpaulschnee.wordpress.com/2017/08/07/saxophone-quarter-tone-charts/ Microtonal saxophone fingerings from Dan Schnee]
  
 +
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCX6Aq5AEd4 Amazing "oriental" piano style performed by Magdi al-Husseini]
  
'''Scholarships are available!'''
+
=== Tuning ===
  
Fifteen $1,000 scholarship awards are available to early applicants from Canada, with priority to UofA students. Ready to apply?  Complete the [http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/uai_educationabroad/pdfs/Award-SummerGhanaMusicology-Application.pdf application]. (Note: the application says these grants are only for UofA students, but in fact you can obtain a scholarship even if you're not a UofA student. It's just that UofA students have priority.)
+
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A440_(pitch_standard) A440 tuning fork]
  
[http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/uai_prospective/isspscholarships.cfm $2,250 scholarships are available for International students] (including  students from the USA).
+
[https://www.alexdemartos.es/wtuner/ Microphone tuner] (use it to practice singing quartertones!)
  
= African Arts and Culture resources =
+
=== Ear work ===
  
== General info on Africa ==
+
http://trainer.thetamusic.com/
  
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:WikiAfrica WikiAfrica]
+
and this new one :  http://www.meludia.com/en/
  
[http://library.stanford.edu/depts/ssrg/africa/ Africa South of the Sahara] (Stanford University)
+
=== Transliterating Middle Eastern / North African languages ===
  
[http://www.africa-union.org/ Africa Union]
+
[https://ijmes.chass.ncsu.edu/docs/TransChart.pdf  International Journal of Middle East Studies standard]
  
[http://www.aluka.org Aluka] (log in via your university library site; if it's not available request a subscription)
+
==== Arabic ====
  
[http://afripod.aodl.org/ Africa Past and Present] podcast
+
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romanization_of_Arabic Summary of Romanization standards]
 
 
[http://www.africaknowledgeproject.org African Knowledge Project], including a set of journals
 
 
 
[http://africanactivist.msu.edu/ African Activist Archive Project]
 
 
 
[http://www.africaportal.org/ Africa Portal]
 
 
 
[http://www.let.leidenuniv.nl/verba-africana/ African languages and oral literatures]
 
 
 
[http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/africa/features/storyofafrica/index.shtml The Story of Africa] (produced by the BBC)
 
 
 
[http://referenceworks.brillonline.com.login.ezproxy.library.ualberta.ca/browse/african-studies-companion-online Brill's African Studies Companion]
 
 
 
[http://www.unesco.org/new/en/culture/themes/dialogue/general-and-regional-histories/general-history-of-africa/volumes General History of Africa] (also in [http://www.unesco.org/new/fr/culture/themes/dialogue/general-and-regional-histories/general-history-of-africa/volumes French)
 
 
 
== General info on Ghana ==
 
 
 
[http://www.ghana.travel/ghana/festivals/ Ghana festivals]
 
 
 
[http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/tourism/festivals.php more Ghana festivals]
 
 
 
[http://lcweb2.loc.gov/frd/cs/ghtoc.html Library of Congress country study]
 
 
 
[https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/gh.html CIA World Factbook]
 
 
 
[http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2860.htm US Dept of State]
 
 
 
[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/1023355.stm BBC]
 
 
 
[http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/international/countriesandterritories/ghana/index.html NYT]
 
 
 
[http://www.kidon.com/media-link/gh.php Ghana news and media]
 
 
 
[http://www.touringghana.com/ Ghana tourism]
 
 
 
[http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/march/6/newsid_2515000/2515459.stm Ghana Independence Day]
 
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fERuaTg93II][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fg6_Jixw7FU&feature=related]
 
 
 
[http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/09/travel/09ghana.html New York Times travel section article about Ghana] (August 9, 2009)
 
 
 
[http://www.let.leidenuniv.nl/verba-africana/ewe/main.htm Ewe stories]
 
 
 
[http://lit.alexanderstreet.com.login.ezproxy.library.ualberta.ca/blfi/view/1000063401 The Ewe Speaking Peoples of the Slave Coast of West Africa], by A. B. Ellis.
 
 
 
== Music of West Africa and beyond ==
 
 
 
[http://library.stanford.edu/depts/ssrg/africa/music.html?newwindow=true African music on the Internet]
 
 
 
[http://www.africaknowledgeproject.org/index.php/amd African Music Database]
 
 
 
[http://www.ghanaexpo.com/ Ghana Expo] - includes music, TV, films, and more...
 
 
 
[http://www.ghanamusic.com/ Ghana Music]
 
 
 
[http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=E263225CF557A2EB My youtube playlist]
 
 
 
[http://www.uni-hildesheim.de/ntama/ Ntama: Journal of African Music and Popular Culture]
 
 
 
[http://www.musicinghana.com/ Music in Ghana] [http://www.musicinghana.com/migsite/index.php]
 
 
 
[http://music.thinkghana.com/ Music news in Ghana]
 
 
 
[http://www.ghanabase.com/ Ghanabase]
 
 
 
[http://www.ghanamusic.co.uk/ Music videos]
 
 
 
[http://www.hiplifelovers.com/ Hiplife]
 
 
 
Wikipedia articles on [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_of_Ghana Ghana], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_African_music  West Africa] (limited, but good for links)
 
 
 
[http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/audio/ Ghana web music]
 
 
 
[http://www.ghanamv.com/ Ghana music videos]
 
 
 
[http://www.afromix.org/html/musique/pays/ghana/index.en.html Afromix]
 
 
 
[http://www.museke.com/ghana Music lyrics]
 
 
 
[http://worldmusic.nationalgeographic.com/view/page.basic/country/content.country/ghana_19 National Geographic World Music Guide]
 
 
 
[http://www.dagaramusic.com/ Dagara xylophone music center] outside Accra
 
 
 
[http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/q6gb Hiplife compilation (BBC review)]
 
 
 
[http://musc265.blogs.wesleyan.edu/african-hip-hop/ African hip hop]
 
 
 
[http://library.brown.edu/cds/koetting/ James Koetting Ghana Field Recording Collection at Brown University]
 
 
 
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCmsLzFibI4 Asafo][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yG_OMhqS3Lc]
 
 
 
== African American and Africana studies ==
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
[[W.E.B. DuBois]]
 
 
 
 
 
Frederick Douglass
 
http://www.iupui.edu/~douglass/
 
 
 
Booker T Washington
 
http://www.historycooperative.org/btw/
 
 
 
Marcus Garvey
 
http://www.international.ucla.edu/africa/mgpp/
 
 
 
Martin Luther King
 
http://www.kinginstitute.info/
 
 
 
Claudia Jones
 
http://h-net.msu.edu/cgi-bin/logbrowse.pl?trx=vx&list=h-afro-am&month=1109&week=a&msg=fVcO9M3iTeVcDqi9q3okfw&user=&pw=
 
 
 
John Henrik Clarke
 
http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/afprl/dr.-john-henrik-clarke
 
 
 
Ida B Wells
 
http://www.lib.uchicago.edu/e/scrc/findingaids/view.php?eadid=ICU.SPCL.IBWELLS
 
 
 
Ella Baker
 
http://www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/archivalcollections/pdf/scmmg630.pdf
 
 
 
http://www.blackeducator.org/
 
 
 
== Film: Africa, West Africa, Diaspora, and related ==
 
 
 
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Po1RGmzfnNY&feature=plcp Basil Davidson's Africa series, part 1] (the contributor also offers [http://www.youtube.com/user/sonofisis?feature=watch other episodes] in the series.)
 
 
 
[http://dickinsg.intrasun.tcnj.edu/films/videos.html Overviews of three major documentary series by Basil Davidson, Ali Mazrui, and Henry Louis Gates]
 
 
 
[http://films.nfb.ca/nollywood-babylon/ Nollywood Babylon, on the Nigerian film industry]
 
 
 
[http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/search-content?page=2&terms4=Gold%20Coast  Colonial Film: Moving Images of the British Empire], containing many online films about the Gold Coast, e.g. [http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/211 Gold Coast Police Band's visit to London in 1947], [http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/332][http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/1280][http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/6021][http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/1705 Prince of Wales in Gold Coast],[http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/615][http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/2566][http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/757 colonialism][http://www.colonialfilm.org.uk/node/5735]
 
 
 
[http://digital.films.com/PortalViewVideo.aspx?xtid=6434&loid= Listening to the Silence: African Cross Rhythms] (featuring Ewe music, Prof. John Collins, and many other wonderful things)
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,123 Singing Fishermen of Ghana]
 
 
 
[http://digital.films.com/PortalViewVideo.aspx?xtid=10510&psid=0&sid=0&State=&title=The%20Drums%20of%20Dagbon&IsSearch=N&parentSeriesID= The Drums of Dagbon]
 
 
 
[http://digital.films.com/PortalViewVideo.aspx?xtid=39449&psid=0&sid=0&State=&title=Dying%20in%20Africa:%20Perspectives%20on%20the%20End%20of%20Life%20in%20Burkina%20Faso,%20Ghana,%20Mali,%20and%20South%20Africa&IsSearch=Y&parentSeriesID= Dying in Africa: Perspectives on the End of Life in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, and South Africa]
 
 
 
[http://digital.films.com/PortalViewVideo.aspx?xtid=30606&psid=0&sid=0&State=&title=Wrapped%20in%20Pride:%20The%20Story%20of%20Kente%20in%20America&IsSearch=Y&parentSeriesID= Wrapped in Pride: The Story of Kente in America]
 
 
 
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32hkIwutxf8 Jean Rouch's classic "Les Maîtres Fous"] (unfortunately only the first third available online...)
 
 
 
[http://digital.films.com/portalsearch.aspx?pstid=15653 The Call of Africa]
 
 
 
[http://digital.films.com/PortalViewVideo.aspx?xtid=6974&psid=0&sid=0&State=&title=Too%20Close%20to%20Heaven:%20The%20History%20of%20Gospel%20Music&IsSearch=N&parentSeriesID= Too Close to Heaven: The History of Gospel Music]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,166 Family Across the Sea]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,59 Gravel Springs Fife and Drum]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,122 Afro-American Work Songs in a Texas Prison]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,82 Black Delta Religion]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,54 Joy Uspeakable] (Pentecostals in Indiana)
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,109 The Land Where Blues Began]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,52 The Music District]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,185 Music Masters and Rhythm Kings]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,194 The Performed Word]
 
 
 
[http://www.folkstreams.net/film,72 Fannie Bell Chapman: Gospel Singer]
 
 
 
== Maps ==
 
 
 
* [http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=108906578218077644238.000466c231101f447cd3d&t=h&z=6 Google Map showing locations we'll likely visit on the summer program]
 
* [http://www.uflib.ufl.edu/maps/MAPAFRICA.HTML Historical maps]
 
* [http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/africa.html Modern maps]
 
* [http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/ams/west_africa/ West Africa maps]
 
* [http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/ghana.html Ghana maps]
 
* [http://africamap.harvard.edu/ Harvard's Africa Map project]
 
* [http://www.lizardpoint.com/fun/geoquiz/afrquiz.html interactive map quiz for countries]
 
* [http://www.lizardpoint.com/fun/geoquiz/afrcapquiz.html interactive map quiz for capitals]
 
 
 
== Blogs ==
 
 
 
[http://blogs.uit.tufts.edu/tuftskiniweinghana/ Tufts Kiniwe trip to Ghana]
 
 
 
== Bibliography ==
 
 
 
[http://dl.lib.brown.edu/koetting/bibliography.html Brown University], bibliography on Ghanaian music
 
 
 
= Program research in Ghana =
 
 
 
Our summer program includes  original field research in a Ghanaian village.  Read the results of our study here: 
 
'''[[Musical Change in Dagbamete]]'''
 
 
 
 
 
= Need more information? =
 
 
 
Regarding application procedures please contact  [mailto:Xiao.Zhang@ualberta.ca Xiao Zhang] ((780) 492-1578)) in [http://www.goabroad.ualberta.ca Education Abroad]<br>
 
Tel: 780 492 6215<br>
 
Fax: 780 492 6213<br>
 
http://www.international.ualberta.ca
 
 
 
You may also contact Professor [mailto:michaelf@ualberta.ca Michael Frishkopf] for further information about the program itself.
 
 
 
----
 
Sending this page's URL to someone else non-electronically (e.g. over the phone)? 
 
You can also use the following short form:  http://tinyurl.com/2epv72
 

Revision as of 13:19, 24 October 2021

This course will be available for credit in Winter 2022. Enroll using Bear Tracks. The course is not available in 2020-21.

If you are enrolled (or on a waitlist) be sure to fill out this form prior to the first meeting. The first meeting will be for consent, when I will ask everyone to sing or play something. Only those enrolled for credit need attend. The second meeting will be our first proper rehearsal.

Sign up for the MENAME email list.

New members click here for more information about the group. We meet in Studio 27, in the Fine Arts Building, Thursdays at 6:30 - those not taking the course for credit can generally come at 7pm. Here's a map.


MENAME (Middle Eastern and North African Music Ensemble) (Music 148, 448, 548)

short URL for this page: http://bit.ly/MENAME or http://bit.ly/mename or "http://bit.ly/Mename"

Overview

The University of Alberta Middle Eastern and North African Music Ensemble (MENAME) is a University of Alberta course and a community group for the study and performance of music from Arabic, Turkish, Persian, Berber, Hebrew, Nubian, Kurdish, Armenian, and other musical-linguistic communities of the Middle East and North Africa, as well as fusions thereof. Our aim is to learn and appreciate these musical traditions, to use music as a gateway towards broader intercultural understanding, and as a means of forming and maintaining a harmonious intercultural musical community here in Edmonton, bridging all divisions, especially those of ethnicity, nationality, language, and religion. The course combines academic and performance components. Our repertoire covers various gamuts, from specialized "high art" to participatory folk, from local to regional, from old to new. Besides studying pieces from the region (mostly songs), we also focus on regional musical concepts (tonal and rhythmic) in theory and practice, through a series of in-class exercises developing the ears in new directions.

The group gathers diverse members: musicians interested in traditions of the region; university students studying the region's culture, society and history; members of language communities; and anyone else who wishes to participate. MENAME was founded by director Michael Frishkopf in 2005 as the Arab Music Group; its scope has gradually expanded to include the Middle East and North Africa.

Technically the course is listed under University of Alberta's "open studies" program, and thus is accessible to anyone who wants to enroll. And everyone interested is encouraged to do so. Neither musical training, nor knowledge of musical notation, nor the ability to play an instrument, nor fluency in regional languages is a prerequisite. All I ask is that you make a firm commitment to the group for one full year, and participate with energy and enthusiasm.

Besides regular meetings, there are also various occasions to perform in public. Minimally, I expect all group members to participate in the final concert (see performances link, below).

The course provides 3 course weights per semester and combines performance and academics, the latter including:

  • readings and films
  • weekly short lectures, films or analytical listening
  • a midterm and final, including performance and academic components

Meeting place and time

We meet every Thursday evening, fall and winter terms, usually from 6:30 to 9:30 pm (but sometimes we start later, or end earlier - join the mailing list to be in the know), in Studio 27, Fine Arts Building (FAB) of the University of Alberta campus (between the Timms centre and HUB mall, and next to the bus stop). Studio 27 is just north of the FAB central stairwell, on the second floor. It's on your left as you cross the breezeway from HUB mall to FAB. All are welcome!


MAP of key locations (Studio 27, Convocation Hall, etc.)

For prospective members

MENAME prospective students click here.

For members

Modify subscriptions to our MENAME email list
Join our MENAME Facebook group (Note: log into Facebook before clicking)

Course outlines and schedules

Click here for the winter 2022 course outline

Click here for the winter 2020 course outline

Click here for the winter 2019 course outline

Click here for the winter 2018 course outline

Click here for the fall 2016 course outline

Click here for the winter 2016 course outline

Click here for the fall 2012 course outline

Repertoire

MENAME repertoire, by year (INCLUDING CURRENT REPERTOIRE)

Near Eastern Ensemble tapes (located off-wiki)

Repertoire content (located on-wiki)

Suggestion box. Please feel free to add...

Middle Eastern Dance pieces

MENAME performance programs: past and present

Links contain schedules; each performance is linked to its program.

MENAME Final performance Winter 2019

Performance Winter 2018

Performances (Fall 2012)

Performances (2011-12)

Performances (2010-11)

Performances (2009-10)

Performances (2008-09)

Performances (2007-08)

Other past concert programs

Videos and audios online

Vimeo collection (password: emanem)

At the Winspear

A night (mainly) in Tunisia! (the 2018 MENAME concert)

Soundcloud concerts

Other online resources

MENAME recordings

YouTube videos of MENA area songs

Performances by MENAME:

Regional music links (with audio, notations, bios, etc.)

Arab music URLs

Turkish music URLs

Iranian music URLS

Kurdish music URLs

Israeli music URLs

Dance URLs

Theory, ear training, practica

MENA music theory and practice

MENA = Middle East and North Africa...what follows are the relevant links for music theory.

Michael's resources: PDF files providing basic maqamat and iqa`at (rhythms) for Arab music of Egypt/Levant (with a separate folder for Maghrib)

MaqamWorld: extensive treatment of maqamat, instruments, forms, and iqa`at (durub) (for Egypt and the Levant only)

Offtonic presentation of Arabic music theory

Maqam Lessons: an excellent theoretical overview, with practical lessons and illustrative analyses

Alsiadi maqamat

Ja's Middle Eastern Rhythms: detailed treatment of rhythms (you'll find dozens!) featuring a remarkable MIDI rhythm generator that will play any rhythm notated using special symbols to indicate the various drum strokes

Finger cymbal patterns

Rhythms

Maqam places. The word maqam can mean: a literary genre, a saint's shrine, a musical mode, or a place or rank. And in fact many maqam names come from places. This map shows some of them. (Others -- along with the names of scale degrees -- are derived from the Persian numbers, coming ultimately from Indo-European: yek, doh, se, chehar...)

Western music theory training

introductory music theory, simple introduction to Western music notation, for those who'd like to learn.

Tutorials in music theory: more advanced training in Western music notation and music theory.

Instruments

Oud Migrations

All about the nay (reed flute)

George Sawa's qanun (plucked zither) page

Oud for Guitarists, a site designed to teach oud and Arab music to guitarists

Microtonal saxophone fingerings from Dan Schnee

Amazing "oriental" piano style performed by Magdi al-Husseini

Tuning

A440 tuning fork

Microphone tuner (use it to practice singing quartertones!)

Ear work

http://trainer.thetamusic.com/

and this new one : http://www.meludia.com/en/

Transliterating Middle Eastern / North African languages

International Journal of Middle East Studies standard

Arabic

Summary of Romanization standards