A series of discussions, Is Music a Universal Language? Decoding the role of music in intercultural communication, will explore ways in which musicians and music educators can challenge and decenter the white, racial frame of music studies.   

The next talk in the series, “Cultural Capital (the Canon)” will be at 11 a.m. February 18 via Zoom. Those interested can register here

Dr. Ama Oforiwaa Aduonum with gourd instrument
Dr. Ama Oforiwaa Aduonum
Dr. Cora Swenson Lee with cello
Dr. Cora Swenson Lee

Using Nigerian scholar Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “The Danger of a Single Story” as a framework to define Cultural Capital, organizers Dr. Ama Oforiwaa Aduonum and Dr. Cora Swenson Lee of Illinois State University will explore how certain cultural capital lives and breathes in our classrooms, our music studies, interactions with each other, and the world around us.  

Participants will also discuss the “danger of that single story,” and explore various ideas that help center different stories, music, and knowledge. To prepare for this session, participants can watch Adichie’s talk, “The Danger of a Single Story.” 

musical note with enjoined hands and the words Diversity Inclusion, Representation, Equity

The event is sponsored by the School of Music Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) Committee. 

Upcoming sessions will be at 11 a.m.: 

Tuesday, March 16 – The Canon and Music Curriculum 

Thursday, April 15 – Cultural Appreciation vs. Cultural Appropriation 

Those who need special accommodation to fully participate should contact facilitators at okaduon@ilstu.edu or chswens@ilstu.edu.