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Friday, 11/4 - 8pm World Music Concert with Paschal Yao Younge @ Oakland University Varner Recital HallSaturday, 11/5 - 2pm Workshop and 4pm Concert with Paschal Younge @ Pontiac Creative Art CenterThursday, 11/10 - Noon, Percussive Arts Society International Convention with Bernard Woma @ Indiana Convention Center, Room 201Friday, 11/11 - 2pm, Percussive Arts Society International Convention with Bill Summers @ Indaiana Convention Center, Room 120. |
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The fall semester is grooving right along. I’m very grateful to teach so many dedicated and energetic students at Oakland University. The success of my own teaching is built upon a foundation given to me by many generous teachers who have shared their musical passion. It is truly a privilege to get up every day and pass this rich gift of music on to the next generation. The month of November is quite special, as I will be working together with three of my musical mentors. My very first professor at the University of Ghana back in 1992 was the multi-talented Paschal Younge. In addition to being a master Anlo-Ewe drummer, Paschal is a highly accomplished composer and brass band director. It is my great pleasure to welcome Paschal Younge to Oakland University for a residency this week, culminating in aconcert at Varner Recital Hall on Friday night, featuring the Akwaaba African Ensemble, Ngoma World Percussion Ensemble, Pan-Jumbies Steel Band, and Afram Jazz Band. Then on Saturday afternoon, we will be presenting a free workshop and African drum performance at the Pontiac Creative Art Center. The following week, I will be at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention in Indianapolis with two more of my wonderful teachers. On Thursday, I will be presenting a World Percussion Lab on Dagara Xylophone Music entitled “Learning Dagara Gyil” together with my long-time mentor and collaborator Bernard Woma. And on Friday, I will be performing Bata’ together with acclaimed percussionist Bill Summer's and his group Iroko. I hope to see you at one of my upcoming events! Thanks for your support, Mark |