Workshop: Andrew Grueschow's workshops introduce students to the instruments, rhythms and culture of the Ewe people of Ghana, West Africa. Students have the opportunity to learn about and perform both simple and complex rhythms and patterns, strengthening their musical skills and perceptions. As students form a musical ensemble, they learn to incorporate traditional elements of Ghanaian culture and basic musical concepts such pulse, dynamics, tempo, and rhythmic patterns. Basic Ewe dance movements are also learned and performed by students as classmates play the appropriate accompaniment. Participants are given the opportunity to play traditional instruments and view video excerpts of drummers and dancers from Ghana. The geographic origins of the music, names of instruments, and the role of music in Ghanaian society are also covered as students strengthen their musical abilities and gain awareness into the culture of West Africa.

Percussionist Andrew Grueschow has studied and performed African music since 1992. After receiving his MA in African Music and Dance and North Indian Music from the California Institute of the Arts, he traveled through Ghana for six months, studying and playing the music of both the Ewe and Dagomba Tribes. He is a member of the renowned Zadonu African Music and Dance Company, and is also a member of the Hands On'Semble, a contemporary percussion quartet devoted to the art of hand drumming. Currently, Andrew teaches at Sangreet School of world Music and Dance and at Plaza de la Raza.

Price:
$100 per 60-minute workshop plus possible planning fee. Minimum three workshops per day must be scheduled.

Age Group: K-12
Capacity: 1 Classroom (maximum of 35 students, plus regular teacher)
Availability: Year Round

Teacher In-Service Price: $300/hour (2-hour minimum required).
Capacity: 40 Educators

To design an arts education program with this artist, please call (213) 250-ARTS or email schoolprograms@musiccenter.org.

Prices are for services between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.