Ewe Music

Alfred’s main goal with his students at CalArts was to show them how to be an effective musician in his style of music.  Ewe music is an oral tradition. Musicians coming from different backgrounds begin a new process of learning through listening.  Alfred reveled in every opportunity he had to lecture his students (many of whom were already professional musicians) on the importance of listening. Often prompted by an inquisitive student, he would stop the whole class and head to his white board where he would draw musical notes (which he called chicken feet) to demonstrate concepts from western music.  Finally, building to a climactic moment, he would simply write the word “LISTEN” on the board. This juxtaposition powerfully emphasized the fundamentally different approach to pedagogy coming from his tradition.  Despite the simplicity of the message, every student who embraced this concept came away from Alfred’s class an improved musician. 

As a young musician my fascination with Ewe music was sparked by my admiration of its construction.  Ewe music weaves a complex counterpoint through all of its elements that rival the greatest artforms of humanity.  I was enamored with the sophistication of the drumming patterns and the ability for musicians to dialogue through a musical language.  The lead drummer is able to direct their ensemble into new dance moves, drumming patterns, or songs,  by playing a call on the drum. Everyone has to listen or you might miss the call! This felt like a secret language and my friends and I were hooked.  We took every opportunity to learn from Alfred and eventually we were helping him teach his classes and performing in his professional ensemble at schools and community events. Later in life I found another beautiful side to the artform. 

The main function of music in Ewe culture is to promote community. People gather in social groups for musical performances.  These groups perform at funerals and weddings and are the backbone of both religious and secular events.  This is extremely valuable in our recent culture of social media and social distancing.  People are craving interaction and Ewe music is a world class option for community building. 

I teach Ewe music as a celebration of West African brilliance. Through honoring and respecting Ewe culture I have found that we can bring value to our school not only through the acute development of musicianship but through the strengthening of our community.  

After Alfred retired from CalArts, he returned to Anyako to live.  He makes occasional visits to the LA area to meet up with old friends and students.  A few years ago I flew down to LA to see him.  I told him about my experience teaching children in the Bay Area.  I recounted giving a speech to parents and faculty at an art program fundraiser. In my speech I told the story of how Alfred taught all the music students to listen. In my speech I promised all the parents that I would teach their children to listen, too.  I finished my address by suggesting that perhaps the children would go home and in turn teach their parents to listen as well!  Alfred grinned and nodded with approval.