Today was our second full day of study, and we worked really hard - we began the fast/advanced section of Atsiagbekor, which requires immense stamina and technique from both dancers and drummers. In between classes, we went to the market in Denu - our nearest "town" - to look for cloth and other items we need/want. The cloth will go to make traditional clothing, so at some point a tailor will come to take measurements. Will post pictures when we start getting the finished clothing back!
Students are waiting for the public computer to do their blogs today, so till that time, I'd love to invite anyone who is following us to ask questions - you are welcome to direct them to certain students or myself, or you can just generally ask something you're curious about and one of the group will do their best to answer.
Thanks for staying with us, we really appreciate knowing you're out there with us on our adventure!
Dear Students of Music, Dance, and Culture,
ReplyDeleteI’ve been totally captivated by your blog and the observations/reflections you’ve noted about the Center, the people you’ve encounter in the market, and the lessons (music related and otherwise) you are taking in. Since Prof. Joss has invited readers to ask questions, here’s one for you: From what I gather from your writings, it appears that you are individually and collectively working hard to improve upon what you already know and also eagerly exploring new things. In regards to what you are learning in the “classroom,” what is motivating you to do well (or possibly more)? Are you all just natural over-achievers, or are your teachers reaching you in a certain way? How is instruction similar or different to what you are accustomed to in the US? What makes a good teacher? Does being in Ghana make a difference?
I’m happy that you are there (even the blisters on the feet part!), and thrilled that we’re able to be with you in this way.
Peggy
Hi everyone,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the blog. We love reading about your adventures and about what you are learning.
We have a couple questions - how do the children learn to drum and dance. Is this something that is taught in the home or school or somewhere else? Thanks!
Nancy and Buzz (Andrew's aunt and uncle