Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Mark Stone to lead African and Caribbean themed summer courses

This summer, Oakland University music instructor Mark Stone will lead three courses focused on the international community in Africa and the Caribbean. International Studies 230: Introduction to Africa is an interdisciplinary study of the peoples of Africa and their traditional and modern civilizations. 

The course satisfies university general education requirements in global perspectives and international studies. Throughout the course, students will learn about the continent through experiences with visual arts, music, theatre and dance.

Two music courses are also available in summer. Stone, who has composed and performed with renowned percussionists worldwide, will teach Music 345: African Ensemble, which is open to all students who are interested in learning to play African music using the Ugandan xylophone. Known as the embaire, this instrument is one of the largest xylophones in the world.

Stone’s other offering, Music 346: Steel Band, is open to all students who want to learn to play Caribbean music. The class will feature the compositions of noted Trinidadian musician Ray Holman. 

Both music groups will present a concert at noon on Tuesday, June 19, on the patio outside the Oakland Center. For additional information, contact Stone at (248) 370-2044 or stone@oakland.edu.

For more information about summer programs, courses and camps available through Oakland, view the website at oakland.edu/summer.