Wrappin’ It Up

Music of Diverse Cultures

By:  Anna J. Micklatcher-Peterson

I am very grateful to have been a part of such a wonderful class and group of students.  I enjoyed this class tremendously!

We had a diverse group of students in the class that made what we were learning so much better, as they shared more knowledge with the class of their own culture.  I was surprised to see how some of the instruments we learned about really did not change a whole lot even though there were many miles between the countries.  The drums were even created in a very similar fashion whether it be in Africa or Australia. 

Since this class touched on interfaith studies as well, I was further reinforced of how other people can view religion in our own country and how religion of all cultures around the globe can have many things that are similar.  This class goes hand in hand with the world religion class at Converse.  In my opinion, Music and Religion are one. 

I really enjoyed the presentation Dr. Weeks gave on all the different countries that he visited.  The pictures and art he shared with the class was awesome.  It was a great experience to get to see up close and hold the different pieces he brought back from these countries.  I can still hear-the-sound of the metal bowl that rang for so long after you ran the pestle around the rim.  I also loved the architecture of the places of worship where Dr. Weeks visited.  It was amazing to see that these buildings were created so long ago without the tools that we have today.  The architecture has inspired me to continue learning about these beautiful buildings all over the world after this class ends.

The only thing that may have made this class easier for me would have been the option of purchasing a book/music that was not online.  Current internet issues where I live limit my abilities with technology.  With that said, I have learned so much more in this class regarding technology.  Blogging is great!!!