TORONTO, April 16, 2001 -- York University’s Music Department puts world music in the spotlight on Wednesday, April 25 with a pair of concerts featuring the instruments and traditions of a variety of global cultures.
Produced by York ethnomusicologist and multi-instrumentalist Rob Simms, the performances will showcase some of the dozen ensembles in the department’s burgeoning world music program.
Music At Midday
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
McLaughlin Performance Hall, 050 McLaughlin College
A musical variety show spanning several continents. Featured groups include the York Klezmer ensemble and North American string band, both directed by Anne Lederman; a Chinese orchestra directed by Kim Morris; and the York University Women's Choir performing traditional Balkan choral music under the direction of Irene Markoff.
Drums & Dance
7:30 p.m.
Winters College Dining Hall
Cash bar.
An evening of kinetic drumming and dancing with a Cuban music ensemble directed by Michael Marcuzzi; the Philharmonia de Caelo Tactus, York’s electronic orchestra, directed by Ray Williams; the York Percussion Ensemble under the direction of John Brownell; and a West African drum ensemble, presenting the rhythms of the Ewe, Dagomba and Mandinka peoples, directed by Rob Simms.
Both concerts are open to the public, and admission is free. Info: (416) 736-5186.
York University pioneered university-level studies in world music in Canada, and continues to be a national leader in the field. The current program director is Rob Simms, who joined the faculty in 2000. An ethnomusicologist with a specialization in world music techniques and styles, his training includes Persian setar (classical lute), Japanese shakuhachi (flute), South Indian mrdangam (drum), Ghanaian Ewe drumming, Arabic 'ud (classical lute), ney (flute), riqq (frame drum), Flamenco guitar, and Gambian kora and kutiro drumming. Simms has also performed professionally as a rock guitarist and jazz pianist, and as accompanist with several dance and theatre companies.
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For more information, please contact:
Brigitte Kleer
Public Relations Manager, Faculty of Fine Arts
York University
(416) 736-2100, ext. 77143
bkleer@yorku.ca
