Ethnomusicology and Performing Arts

Course dates: 09 August 2010  -  17 September 2010

Course leader: Julie Taylor, Ph.D.

PURPOSE & PREREQUISITES

This six week course comprises three modules and is intended to be of particular value to those wanting a comprehensive approach to engaging in music and the performing arts anywhere in the world.

Although the course is designed primarily for workers who desire to communicate with people through performing arts, it requires no prior training in any aspect of performance.

Ethnomusicology & Performing Arts may be taken independently of any other course.  Typically, however, it will form part of training for an Intermediate Level role with.

 

The first two modules count as prerequisites for either:

• field service as an SIL Arts Worker/Consultant
• other arts courses to be offered at GIAL, Dallas

It aims to prepare participants for:

• music research
• application of their findings in both church and non-churched contexts

As course materials are being increasingly computerised, all participants should expect to bring their own laptop with them. Both Mac and PC are acceptable for Modules I & II.

Participants wishing to take Module II should also bring:

• headphones
• (if possible) a basic-level microphone

that will plug into your laptop for audio work.

If you are unable to bring a laptop, please discuss alternative options with the course leader well in advance.

 

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COURSE CONTENT                                                                                                                (back to top)

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The primary focus is on exploring ways of encouraging and developing indigenous forms of creative Biblical worship that reflect the hearts and culture of local communities around the world.

 

After completing this course, participants should expect to be able to:

• work with communities worldwide to facilitate new communication in indigenous art forms (such as music, drama, dance and storytelling) that is both based on  vernacular Scripture and promoting community development
• encourage sustainability by helping integrate these expressions into local institutions
• mentor local artistes
• promote the dissemination of indigenous Christian performances
• encourage the positive self-identity of local communities that these forms may engender

 

Each module places unique requirements on participants throughout the course, which form the basis for assessment. Participants should therefore expect to:

• interact with others & actively contribute during class time
• complete various assignments

During Module II, participants are welcome to incorporate research from existing personal projects, on the understanding that additional materials and assignments need to be completed.

 

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Module I: Research Methods for Performing Arts                                                          (back to top)

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Monday 9 August – Friday 20 August, 2010

Hours: 60

Module leader: Julie Taylor, Ph.D.

After completing this reading and discussion-based module, participants will have a theoretical and practical foundation for research and application in various performing arts contexts.

The basic outline below will guide us through the Module:

• broad consideration of the (well-documented) domain of ethnomusicology (music in culture)
• examination of and reflection on communicative art forms, including drama, dance and storying
• practical application to cross-cultural ministry by seeking to answer questions, such as the following, through various ethnographic methodologies:
  • What kinds of performing arts exist locally?
  • Which might be most appropriate to carry Christian messages?
  • What are the factors that might affect the acceptance or rejection of indigenous-style performances by community members?

NOTE: Pre-reading of the following text is required for this module:

• Bruno Nettl (must be the 2005 revised edition): The Study of Ethnomusicology: 31 Issues and Concepts. Illinois: University of Illinois Press.

Module II: Applied Cultural Arts                                                                                 (back to top)

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Monday 23 August - Friday 3 September, 2010

Hours: 60

Module leader: Julie Taylor, Ph.D.

In this module, participants:

• acquire practical tools and methods for applying arts principles to the development of indigenous worship worldwide with a special focus on ethnomusicology
• consider a range of approaches for varying cultural contexts 
• experience a basic introduction to field recording and audio editing skills

 

Module III: Field Audio course

 

Monday 6 September - Friday 17 September, 2010

Module leader: Julie Taylor, Ph.D.

 

Details to be announced shortly.

 

 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION & APPLICATIONS                                                                   (back to top)

 

If you have further questions, please email etp_uk@sil.org.

 

You should apply for this course using the Standard etp Courses Application Form on the applications page.

Options for meals and room are included on this form. It is possible to choose either full board or a lunch only option.

A daily supplement of £ 9.63 will be charged if you require single occupancy of a shared room.

 

Please do not arrange departures prior to 13:00 on the last day of any of the modules.

 

Course fee (including all meals & room):                  Module I:   £ 600.00 (GBP)

                                                                        Module II:  £ 600.00 (GBP)

Subsidised course fee (including all meals & room):  Module I:   £ 440.00 (GBP)

                                                                        Module II:  £ 440.00 (GBP)

                                                                        Module III: £ 440.00 (GBP)

Other rates may be obtained from etp_registrar_uk@sil.org

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