Academics

Eligibility

This course is open to current undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Maryland and other universities. The curriculum is designed for students who are highly motivated, both academically and personally, and who are seeking to actively engage in the challenges of a new learning environment. We are looking for energetic students from a wide variety of backgrounds.

Course Description

The following is a tentative list of course assignments:

Undergraduate and Graduate Readings/Viewings Before Departure:

• Akaran Iko Iko (Instructional DVD)*
• The Garland Handbook of African Music, ed. Ruth M. Stone, Part 1 “Introduction to African Music” and Part 3 “Regional Case Studies” West Africa 
• Djabote: Senegalese drumming & song from master drummer Doudou N’Diaye Rose (videorecording) 1993.
  

The following text by Mamady Keita will be used during the stay in Senegal:

• A Life for the Djembe by Mamady Keita, 6th ed.*

* may be purchased from the instructor  

Additional Graduate Student Material:

• Manding Music: Traditional and Modern Music of the Maninka and Mandinka of Western Africa by Eric Charry
  

Undergraduate students will be responsible for keeping a journal. The graduate students will be responsible for keeping a journal and writing a final ethnographic project.

Credits

Enrolled students will receive 3 Maryland resident credits for MUET 438S: Manding Drumming and Culture in West Africa: Senegal.