Building A Vocal Community®:
Singing in the African American Tradition
Ysaye Barnwell
Oct 8-10, 2010
Register Online
This workshop is a whole lot of fun. We’ll develop a community through the vehicle of music from the African American vocal tradition, including calls and chants, spirituals, ring shouts, hymns, gospels, songs of the Civil Rights Movement, and songs of contemporary struggle. Mostly we’ll sing, but we will also discuss the songs’ historical, social, and political context. The group will explore, from an African-American world-view, the values embedded in the music. We’ll also explore the role of spiritual traditions and rituals and the nature and influence of cultural responses to political and social struggles.
Ysaye is one of the most energetic and beloved workshop leaders ever to come to Rowe. She is steeped in African American history and cultural tradition. On Saturday evening, there will be some of the following: films, discussions related to African-American song tradition, impromptu performances, or sing-a-longs led by some of our guests. The only requirements are a willingness to sing as fully as you can and to embrace joy. No prior musical experience is necessary, and all are welcome, but sign up soon — this retreat fills up early.
Ysaye M. Barnwell is a dynamic, multi-faceted woman who holds a doctorate in speech pathology and a postdoctoral degree in public health Since 1979, she has performed and recorded with the internationally renowned a cappella quintet Sweet Honey in the Rock® and composed some of the group’s most popular songs. She appears on more than 20 recordings has composed music for Sesame Street and many other projects, is an actress, author, and an infectiously delightful human being whose workshops here are much loved.