University of Alberta West African Music Ensemble

Here you will find daily records of what was covered in class, as well as links to specific things we learn, such as dances or drums.

July 10, 2006

The circle represents life and community

• Life is a cycle.
• Most Ewe dances are in a circle.
• There is a connection between the physical and metaphysical--the living and the dead are related.

Gota

• The dance's basic movement
• The beginning drum signal
• The drum signal to change from the basic movement to improvised dance with your partner.

Gahu

• The bell pattern: low high high high high
• The rattle pattern: pum pa ti pa ti pa ti pa
• The basic steps: right right left left

Call & Response

• Call: Kini wee! Response: Zii wee! (with arm motion)