A group of University of Texas at Arlington students has just returned from Ghana, West Africa. While in Ghana the students met and studied with master musicians and cultural leaders from various ethnic music backgrounds.
They also attended music events and visited museums, natural parks and historic sites, while learning the history and culture of the country and returned with traditional items such as artwork, clothing or musical instruments.
Students from a variety of departments were in the group, led by Associate Professor of Percussion and World Music Michael Varner in a wide ranging study of traditions, dance, singing, food, language, culture and music. Dr. Alusine Jalloh, founding director of UT Arlington’s Africa Program, was coordinator, working with the students and facilitating the diverse cultural opportunities.
“This was an extraordinary opportunity for our students to experience culture and music in everyday African life,” Varner said. “This experience profoundly affected us all.”
The Music Department and the Africa Program are planning to establish this study abroad opportunity as a yearly summer course offering. For more information program, contact Varner at (817) 272-2526 or MVarner@uta.edu.
