Course offering through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Denver

Based on the assertion that the various genres of music created by African Americans are best visualized as a giant tree with one main trunk and an ever evolving network of branches, this course will explore both the common cultural and psychological functions served by major genres over time as well as the unique functions served by each of those genres, beginning with the Spirituals created by African captives in slavery and continuing through the blues, jazz, gospel, rhythm and blues, soul, and hip-hop. We will explore how the music has functioned in both the African American and wider American communities. Learning in the course will be facilitated through brief lectures, active discussions, and a richly diverse sampling of oral and video recordings. Enrollees will also be encouraged to take advantage of live music offerings in the Denver metro area and to share their experiences during class discussions.

This course is available to adults, age 50 or older, who register a membership with OLLI@du. Half-year membership is $35.00. Registration for this course is $70.00.

The course meets at Ruffato Hall on the University of Denver of campus, oTuesdays from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, beginning April 8th and ending on May 27th.