World Music Percussion Ensemble Fall '07

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World Music Percussion Ensemble

Hafiz Shabazz, director

The Story of Rhythm: a three-part series

Roots of Rhythms: West African Songs and Ceremonies, Nigeria, Mali and Senegal

with special guest Jeh Kulu Dance and Drum Theater

Friday, NOVEMBER 9 • 8 pm
Spaulding Auditorium
$12 • Dartmouth students $3
All other students $6
General admission

Click to download PROGRAM NOTES

The story of rhythm begins in the Yoruba Shango Festival of Nigeria, where a repertoire of powerful Yoruba religious and festival songs, music and melodic drumming stir the spirits of both gods and humans. Ancient songs praise the great King of the Yoruba people of Oyo and celebrate Shango, the god of thunder and lightning. Music from Mali and Senegal sets off sparks with intensely dynamic, high-speed rhythms of the djembe, sabar and balaphone. Through a medley of Mandinka and Malinke music, percussion, poetry and stories—told by narrators from the ensemble and guest dancers—the primeval tale of Sundjata unfolds—“The Child Who Would Become King.” Join the World Music Percussion Ensemble and the dancers and drummers of Jeh Kulu from Burlington, performing the movement and music at the heart of West African culture.