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The Drums of Dagbon (58:00)
This program, filmed on location in a group of villages surrounding Dagbon’s regional capital, explores the ritual use of drum music at every milestone of life. Performers include Issahaku Abdulai, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdulai, Fuseini Alhassan, and Fuseini Tia.
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Music Moves the World: The Power and Passion of Rhythm, Melody, and Dance (53:00)
This program travels to both developing and industrialized countries to capture culture-defining rhythms and melodies and explain the important roles they play in human society. With stops in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe, the video observes how music is used by gauchos and Cossacks, Sufis and Buddhist monks, Papuan warriors and Western soldiers, Senufo weavers and flamenco dancers, marching protesters and singing soccer fans, and many others.
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Sing and Don’t Cry: The Mariachis—in Spanish with English Subtitles (58:00)
The mariachi sound is the heart and soul of Mexico—and a form of music that today is enjoyed throughout the world. In this down-to-earth program, mariachi aficionado Cornélio Garcia introduces viewers to the music, history, and cultural importance of mariachi bands in Mexico and elsewhere. Whether they are marching in a parade, performing onstage in a restaurant or at a fiesta, or even serenading mourners at a funeral, mariachis bring pleasure to all who hear them. The renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán is spotlighted.
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Tsugaru Shamisen: The World of Michihiro Sato (48:00)
Michihiro Sato is considered the finest player of the Tsugaru shamisen, a traditional three-stringed instrument of the Tsugaru province integral to Japanese folk music. This program combines live performances by Sato at the Otsu Traditional Performing Arts Center with the musician’s commentary on the history and role of the shamisen player, a door-to-door minstrel of a bygone era. Sato also discusses the future of Tsugaru shamisen, such as his work with jazz and avant-garde musicians in America and Europe.
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World Music: Stories Behind the Songs (54:00)
Produced in conjunction with legendary singer Peter Gabriel, this program takes viewers to a stage outside London as it documents the work of artists appearing at the World of Music, Arts and Dance Festival (WOMAD). Featured musicians include Dr. Hukwe and Charles Zawose from Bagamoyo, Tanzania; the musical troupe Spaccanapoli, from the streets of Naples, Italy; and many others.
Try these videos to get started. Must be on campus or login with your COM account for off campus access.
