FRS 004 — Sec. 003 —
(2 units) — CRN 26059 — F 12:10-2:00pm — 25 Wellman
Indian Classical Music and Dance: Art and Culture
Instructors: Subhash Risbud, Director, Internship and Career Center and
Venita Katir, Dance and Music Artist and Teacher, Experimental College, UC Davis.
Description: This is a freshman seminar class which explores
the culture and art of India via the rich traditions of Indian classical music
and dance. This class will expose students to both North and South Indian culture
and history through artistic expression and the nuances of classical Indian dance
and music. Students will learn about customs, cultural influences, history and
religious beliefs linked to the art forms. Most of the dance syllables and names
of movements are in Sanskrit, so students will learn both the Sanskrit and English
translations.
NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE IN DANCE/MUSIC NEEDED
Format: The class will meet on Fridays from 12-2. 50% of the
class will include lectures, readings, and guest speakers with a focus on dance
and music. The remaining time will include dance training accompanied by Indian
classical music. Emphasis will be on the technique, expression, and rhythm of
Bharatanatyam. It is an all-inclusive dance form which requires coordination of
the entire body, intricate footwork for ramification of rhythm, and a broad spectrum
of artistic expression and subtle hand gestures. Grading:
Class will be graded on a P/NP basis and the grade will be based on active participation
and completion of a short written paper of about 500 words due at the end of the
quarter. The paper topic can cover any aspect of Indian culture, history, dance
or music.
About the Instructors: Subhash Risbud is a Professor
at UC Davis and Director of the ICC. He has studied Indian classical music for
over 17 years and is the faculty advisor to SPICMACAY—A UCD student organization
for the promotion of Indian music and culture.
Venita Katir has studied Bharatanatyam professionally for the
past 15 years. She spent five years at the Bharata Vidya Bhavan, Institute of
Indian Culture, in London, England and also learned from prominent teachers in
the Bay Area. She currently teaches Bharatanatyam at the Experimental College,
UC Davis. She is the founder and Director of the ‘Chandravadanis’
Classical Indian Dance Troupe. Venita has participated in numerous dance productions
and continues to perform regularly.