They’ve got the whole world in their bands
By Julie Rausch
The World Music Concert May 8 is going to expand farther out into the world this year and will include even more music genres than past concerts.
The favorite ensembles will still play, including LaBanda Hispanica, directed by Janet Cramer; Djembe and Gaha ensembles, directed by Matt Maholland; and the Steel Pan Orchestra, directed by Joseph Peck, who is coordinating this concert.
Students from Peck’s World Music class, a general education course he teaches at WSU Westside, have been involved in organizing the scheduled performances that will include jazz, blues, gospel and even rock ’n’ roll.
Peck required that his students research music from other cultures and genres for the class, then contact a local artist to perform in the concert.
Music from Japan, Indonesia and even the Czech "Beer Barrel Polka" will be performed. In addition, graduate student Paraq Kamat, who’s from India, will play traditional tabla music. Sterling Grey, WSU adjunct teacher, will lead a jazz combo.
Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. concert in Miller Concert Hall are $4 with discounts available. Call 978-3233.
