A few weeks ago I attended a small workshop on Tanzanian music (drumming, singing, and dancing). A few Tanzanians had come to Luther to speak, perform, and teach, and they decided to do this private workshop where they'd teach us a few songs, some dance steps, and a drum beat or two.
What struck me as odd about this experience was the apprehensiveness of the students that attended the workshop. There were only four of us there, and we had all been invited because the instructors in our various fields (theatre/dance, music, etc.) thought it was something we would really get into. This was an amazing opportunity to learn something firsthand about another culture! I was envisioning us laughing, jamming, and dancing around the room with these Tanzanian guys, but when I got there everyone was quiet, a bit awkward, and reluctant to sing like no one was listening or dance like no one was watching.
I know that it was difficult to sing in a new language and dance in a different way, but I really think that learning is all about trying new things. Maybe the workshop leaders could have done more to motivate us to dive in and have fun, but we also could have brought more energy and willingness to learn and try. Learning can't happen unless you're willing to let it happen! Hakuna Matata, guys.
Tswelela solofela,
Tom Bishoff
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment