Professor Kisliuk is truly one of a kind: she is down-to-Earth, free-spirited, and breaks the binds of Western musical conformity. The course is taught through an anthropological lens, derived from her personal experiences with BaAka in central Africa, and clarifies assumptions we project onto “music”. The course covers vocal microtonal practices of BaAka and drumming of Ewe from Ghana/Togo. Drumming and dance are an integral part of Life: Ewe utilize a family of drums, which are individually expressed via distinct voice and rhythm - this creates a synergy of intricate polyrhythms by which family members communicate to one another during performance. There are many connections to everyday life, and you’ll fall in love with the organic feel innately from the music as well as Prof. Kisliuk. So, what are you waiting for? Get up and groove!

Michelle is one of those professors you cannot afford to miss in the Music department. She has transformed my perspectives on Africa, particularly that of colonization and gender studies in Africa. Her life work is dedicated to studying the Ewe and BaAka people of Africa and she has amazing footage and recordings from her stay there.
2 short 5 page papers, some reading responses every other week (like 250 words), and a final project. Very easy to get an A-, but take this class and be prepared to talk about your own perspectives.

Fun class, be prepared to speak up in class and try new things.

Absolutely the best class at UVA. No question.