by Elise Goitia '18

Knox College students were introduced to the dynamically engaging drumming, dance, and culture of Ghana when Jeremy Cohen, a master teacher and director of This World Music, visited campus to conduct workshops and a presentation.

Cohen's interdisciplinary dance and music residency on January 25-26 was hosted by the Knox College Dance Program. While on campus, Cohen taught members of the Knox community about traditional music and dance movements in Ghana, and he worked with students and faculty in the College's dance and anthropology programs.

Carly Taylor '16, a creative writing major and dance minor, enjoyed the experience.

"It's fun! It's so energetic and really cool," Taylor said after attending one of Cohen's drum and dance workshops.

Cohen is teaming up with Knox faculty member Jennifer Smith, associate professor and chair of dance, to develop a short-term study abroad trip to Ghana in December.

"Getting out of your comfort zone and getting out there is a great experience" said Robin Delaquess '17, who is majoring in environmental studies and minoring in Spanish. "This workshop was a high energy, excellent event."

The workshops and presentations offered a more in-depth look at what the students would learn by studying abroad in Ghana.

"I thought that Jeremy Cohen did a really good job breaking things down and keeping people engaged, making sure everyone was getting it," added Delaquess. "He was doing it very skillfully, so everyone was picking it up.

Esai Ponce ‘17 was especially drawn by the opportunity to study in Ghana. Ponce said, "The most intriguing part of it is to be immersed in a completely different culture."