Traditions Weeks are ONLINE this summer!
~ Distinctive Lectures: Overview ~
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Special Gatherings | Distinctive Lectures | Literary/Performance Arts, Film | Music
Dance | Movement | Human Arts | Youth Program | Visual Arts
QUICK LINKS TO OVERVIEW PAGES
Special Gatherings | Distinctive Lectures | Literary/Performance Arts, Film | Music
Dance | Movement | Human Arts | Youth Program | Visual Arts
Distinctive Lectures cover a broad range of topics. These classes offer an opportunity to dive deep into current issues with experts in the field. Click below for full course descriptions.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Click on the tab for the desired week's courses.
Note: See bottom for list of courses with instructor names.
Note: See bottom for list of courses with instructor names.
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Contemporary Native American Philosophy & Religion in the Southeast
This course creates a foundation for understanding the vibrant Southeastern Native American Cultures of today and their philosophy. It includes an introduction to Native languages, ceremonies and their public and private roles, the Great Duality of life and its many expressions, and the spiritual nature of foods, herbs and healing. We will touch on art, music, death & dying, family life and child-rearing. Time and interest permitting, we’ll try our hand at dance, crafts, gain a taste of ceremony and food. This class is often very interactive and hands-on with related text materials provided to all students. If taken for credit, please contact the instructor in advance for selected reading materials. There is no course fee, but contributions are welcome to offset the cost of materials and foods to be sampled. Period 2 ~ Sakim
Healing the Racial Divide
We are not living in a post racial society. Racial divides still exist within the US and throughout the world. It also impacts our local spaces, and maybe even our families. Is there anything that we can do about this? During our time together, students will learn various ways to be catalysts for racial healing in their school, workplace, and other spaces. Just imagine what our world would look like if each of us actually worked toward healing racial divides. Period 2 ~ Richard Smith
Hidden Bias in Curricular Resources
Calling all teachers! Curricular resources (books, digital media, worksheets, etc.) can contain hidden messaging that impedes inclusivity and negatively impacts student success. We will begin by discussing some historic and current research on the impact of hidden bias in education. You will then learn and apply established methods to look for bias in the curricular resources you intend to use in your own classes. (I will provide materials if you do not have your own). This hands-on class is suitable for anyone interested in examining educational resources for any age group. Come join the effort! Period 1 ~ Melanie Nilsson
Hidden Voices
The many musical traditions present at Common Ground on the Hill contain a series of "hidden voices" rarely heard, but vital. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer folks make important impacts on traditional music, but we rarely hear all the meanings in their stories. Why? In this course, we will uncover some of these previously hidden people and the music they have made especially in blues, Appalachian mountain music, gospel, folk counterculture, and Celtic music. We will also explore themes of defiance, fear, secrets, desire, liberation, and acceptance. The music and ideas of Bessie Smith, Brían Ó hAirt, the Down Home Divas, Holly Near, and many others will make appearances as we break down stereotypes and learn from them and from each other. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion, regardless of age, gender, or orientation. Period 4 ~ Ryan Koons
How to Talk About Politics at the Dinner Table and Stay in the Will
We used to be able to navigate the rocky waters of political disagreement. We need to revive that lost art. Some timely tips for a presidential election year and beyond from a writer who had to play it down the middle for 40 years in journalism. Period 1 ~ David Morris
Migration in Contemporary Hispanic Cinema CLOSED
This course will explore the portrayal of migration in films from the Hispanic world. Day one will be an introduction to issues in migration studies, as well as an overview of Hispanic films on the subject. On each of the other days, we will view a portion of a film and discuss it. Films will be made available for students to view in their entirety outside of class. Day two will be on emigration from Guatemala with Gregory Nava’s El Norte (The North). Day three will focus on migration from and to Mexico with María Novaros’s El Jardín de Eden (The Garden of Eden). Day four will be on emigration from Africa to Spain with Gerardo Olivares’s 14 Kilómetros (14 kilometers). Day five will focus on immigration to Argentina with Paula Hernández’s Herencia (Inheritance). Films are subtitled; no knowledge of Spanish is necessary. Period 4 ~ Thomas Deveny
Music and Healing: Body, Mind and Soul
"The power of music to integrate and cure is quite fundamental. It is the profoundest non-chemical medication." Oliver Sacks, M.D., Awakenings. Most of us have experienced the healing power of music either as listeners, dancers, or players; yet there are ways in which music is much more powerful than we can even imagine. Recent neuroscientific studies demonstrate how music touches our memories, emotions, senses, motor system, and language in ways that the concept of “right brain/left brain” does not even begin to capture. Music is one of the most complex activities that human beings partake of - both as makers of music and as listeners. This is why people with dementia who do not know their own names or are not otherwise able to communicate are able to sing songs. We will share stories and music, hear some of the latest remarkable findings in the emerging field of music and healing, draw upon the work of Oliver Sacks, Daniel Levitin, and others and engage in experiential exercises that will empower us to think outside of the box and encourage us to share our live music for healing in the world. Period 3 ~ Karen Ashbrook, Jesse Palidofsky
Native American Tribal Arts: Motifs, Techniques and Meaning
Pre-Contact North America had over 355 native language families and hundreds more tribal communities—more diversity than most places on earth. Yet despite such wide differences in almost every area of human life, there are identifiable common elements in their artistic traditions. This course begins with the archaic and paleo foundations of native expressions. Discover and explore six major cultural areas and their traditions, tools and techniques, motifs and meaning, the materials utilized, and, finally, the what, why, how and purposes of native arts. This year's class will begin with the west coast native peoples and work our way eastward to the Atlantic and Southeast. You may bring a native item for discussion. If you plan to take the class for credit, please bring a good book on American Indian Art and Architecture for your class text and reference. Period 3 ~ Sakim
Professional Practices: The Business of Art
Get your head around the business side of your art. This fun, fast paced class will demystify many aspects of profiting from your passion. Topics include: applying to shows, pricing, taking commissions, and dealing with galleries. No topic is off limits!! Period 5 ~ Wayne Werner
Samaritans at the Border, Immigrants Among Us
The United States has always been known as a country of immigrants. You need only to turn to the revered Statue of Liberty and read the chiseled words, “Give me your tired, your weak, your huddled masses...” to understand that immigration is central to us as a nation. In the last ten years, there has been unprecedented immigration along our southern border as “people made poor” from the effects of globalization have been pushed from their countries and pulled into the United States to work in our gardens, hotels, and kitchens. This workshop will focus on globalization and how it affects communities which in turn stimulate immigration into our First World country. It will lift up the plight of the migrant and illuminate the deep instinct for survival and love of family. It will describe and lay out the rich culture and climate of the borderlands, and it will tell the story of a humanitarian group called the Green Valley Samaritans, who give food, water, and medical care to those whose lives are on the line. Many from the Common Ground on the Hill community have visited the Samaritans in Arizona to further understand their mission and work, often while attending our sister event, Common Ground on the Border. Period 2 ~ Randy Mayer
The Science of Narrative: Why Storytelling Is Important to Public Health
The course will highlight the current intersectionality of storytelling and public health, and the use of storytelling in challenging Western perspectives on health and healing. As a practice, it is being applied to address mental and emotional health outcomes, and within research it encourages better understanding and appreciation of scientific findings by exhibiting a genuine, equitable methodology for capturing information from communities, particularly historically divested communities. Additionally, this course will introduce the basic components of storytelling and examine the science within the narrative arts, exploring how storytelling is a powerful modality for conveying uncommon knowledge and insight in a manner that appreciates common experiences. Period 4 ~ David Fakunle
Use Music to Make Your Classroom Ring!
Here's an opportunity to really Jazzz up your teaching by using musical strategies to deliver the curriculum you are already teaching. We will learn how to use songwriting, soundscapes, rhythm compositions and more to enhance and deepen student learning. We will explore many online cultural resources, including videos and materials from the Library of Congress archives. We will also discuss how teaching through the arts makes teaching to the Common Core Standards much more fun and do-able. Period 2 ~ Sally Rogers
This course creates a foundation for understanding the vibrant Southeastern Native American Cultures of today and their philosophy. It includes an introduction to Native languages, ceremonies and their public and private roles, the Great Duality of life and its many expressions, and the spiritual nature of foods, herbs and healing. We will touch on art, music, death & dying, family life and child-rearing. Time and interest permitting, we’ll try our hand at dance, crafts, gain a taste of ceremony and food. This class is often very interactive and hands-on with related text materials provided to all students. If taken for credit, please contact the instructor in advance for selected reading materials. There is no course fee, but contributions are welcome to offset the cost of materials and foods to be sampled. Period 2 ~ Sakim
Healing the Racial Divide
We are not living in a post racial society. Racial divides still exist within the US and throughout the world. It also impacts our local spaces, and maybe even our families. Is there anything that we can do about this? During our time together, students will learn various ways to be catalysts for racial healing in their school, workplace, and other spaces. Just imagine what our world would look like if each of us actually worked toward healing racial divides. Period 2 ~ Richard Smith
Hidden Bias in Curricular Resources
Calling all teachers! Curricular resources (books, digital media, worksheets, etc.) can contain hidden messaging that impedes inclusivity and negatively impacts student success. We will begin by discussing some historic and current research on the impact of hidden bias in education. You will then learn and apply established methods to look for bias in the curricular resources you intend to use in your own classes. (I will provide materials if you do not have your own). This hands-on class is suitable for anyone interested in examining educational resources for any age group. Come join the effort! Period 1 ~ Melanie Nilsson
Hidden Voices
The many musical traditions present at Common Ground on the Hill contain a series of "hidden voices" rarely heard, but vital. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer folks make important impacts on traditional music, but we rarely hear all the meanings in their stories. Why? In this course, we will uncover some of these previously hidden people and the music they have made especially in blues, Appalachian mountain music, gospel, folk counterculture, and Celtic music. We will also explore themes of defiance, fear, secrets, desire, liberation, and acceptance. The music and ideas of Bessie Smith, Brían Ó hAirt, the Down Home Divas, Holly Near, and many others will make appearances as we break down stereotypes and learn from them and from each other. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion, regardless of age, gender, or orientation. Period 4 ~ Ryan Koons
How to Talk About Politics at the Dinner Table and Stay in the Will
We used to be able to navigate the rocky waters of political disagreement. We need to revive that lost art. Some timely tips for a presidential election year and beyond from a writer who had to play it down the middle for 40 years in journalism. Period 1 ~ David Morris
Migration in Contemporary Hispanic Cinema CLOSED
This course will explore the portrayal of migration in films from the Hispanic world. Day one will be an introduction to issues in migration studies, as well as an overview of Hispanic films on the subject. On each of the other days, we will view a portion of a film and discuss it. Films will be made available for students to view in their entirety outside of class. Day two will be on emigration from Guatemala with Gregory Nava’s El Norte (The North). Day three will focus on migration from and to Mexico with María Novaros’s El Jardín de Eden (The Garden of Eden). Day four will be on emigration from Africa to Spain with Gerardo Olivares’s 14 Kilómetros (14 kilometers). Day five will focus on immigration to Argentina with Paula Hernández’s Herencia (Inheritance). Films are subtitled; no knowledge of Spanish is necessary. Period 4 ~ Thomas Deveny
Music and Healing: Body, Mind and Soul
"The power of music to integrate and cure is quite fundamental. It is the profoundest non-chemical medication." Oliver Sacks, M.D., Awakenings. Most of us have experienced the healing power of music either as listeners, dancers, or players; yet there are ways in which music is much more powerful than we can even imagine. Recent neuroscientific studies demonstrate how music touches our memories, emotions, senses, motor system, and language in ways that the concept of “right brain/left brain” does not even begin to capture. Music is one of the most complex activities that human beings partake of - both as makers of music and as listeners. This is why people with dementia who do not know their own names or are not otherwise able to communicate are able to sing songs. We will share stories and music, hear some of the latest remarkable findings in the emerging field of music and healing, draw upon the work of Oliver Sacks, Daniel Levitin, and others and engage in experiential exercises that will empower us to think outside of the box and encourage us to share our live music for healing in the world. Period 3 ~ Karen Ashbrook, Jesse Palidofsky
Native American Tribal Arts: Motifs, Techniques and Meaning
Pre-Contact North America had over 355 native language families and hundreds more tribal communities—more diversity than most places on earth. Yet despite such wide differences in almost every area of human life, there are identifiable common elements in their artistic traditions. This course begins with the archaic and paleo foundations of native expressions. Discover and explore six major cultural areas and their traditions, tools and techniques, motifs and meaning, the materials utilized, and, finally, the what, why, how and purposes of native arts. This year's class will begin with the west coast native peoples and work our way eastward to the Atlantic and Southeast. You may bring a native item for discussion. If you plan to take the class for credit, please bring a good book on American Indian Art and Architecture for your class text and reference. Period 3 ~ Sakim
Professional Practices: The Business of Art
Get your head around the business side of your art. This fun, fast paced class will demystify many aspects of profiting from your passion. Topics include: applying to shows, pricing, taking commissions, and dealing with galleries. No topic is off limits!! Period 5 ~ Wayne Werner
Samaritans at the Border, Immigrants Among Us
The United States has always been known as a country of immigrants. You need only to turn to the revered Statue of Liberty and read the chiseled words, “Give me your tired, your weak, your huddled masses...” to understand that immigration is central to us as a nation. In the last ten years, there has been unprecedented immigration along our southern border as “people made poor” from the effects of globalization have been pushed from their countries and pulled into the United States to work in our gardens, hotels, and kitchens. This workshop will focus on globalization and how it affects communities which in turn stimulate immigration into our First World country. It will lift up the plight of the migrant and illuminate the deep instinct for survival and love of family. It will describe and lay out the rich culture and climate of the borderlands, and it will tell the story of a humanitarian group called the Green Valley Samaritans, who give food, water, and medical care to those whose lives are on the line. Many from the Common Ground on the Hill community have visited the Samaritans in Arizona to further understand their mission and work, often while attending our sister event, Common Ground on the Border. Period 2 ~ Randy Mayer
The Science of Narrative: Why Storytelling Is Important to Public Health
The course will highlight the current intersectionality of storytelling and public health, and the use of storytelling in challenging Western perspectives on health and healing. As a practice, it is being applied to address mental and emotional health outcomes, and within research it encourages better understanding and appreciation of scientific findings by exhibiting a genuine, equitable methodology for capturing information from communities, particularly historically divested communities. Additionally, this course will introduce the basic components of storytelling and examine the science within the narrative arts, exploring how storytelling is a powerful modality for conveying uncommon knowledge and insight in a manner that appreciates common experiences. Period 4 ~ David Fakunle
Use Music to Make Your Classroom Ring!
Here's an opportunity to really Jazzz up your teaching by using musical strategies to deliver the curriculum you are already teaching. We will learn how to use songwriting, soundscapes, rhythm compositions and more to enhance and deepen student learning. We will explore many online cultural resources, including videos and materials from the Library of Congress archives. We will also discuss how teaching through the arts makes teaching to the Common Core Standards much more fun and do-able. Period 2 ~ Sally Rogers
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SUPPLIES: Students will need to have simple art supplies including drawing paper, crayons and/or colored pencils and/or markers, found objects that make interesting sounds, small percussion or other instruments, IF you already have them.
FOR MAKING A RAINSTICK: One sturdy 2-inch in diametermailing tube, 1 pound of flat-headed 2-inch nails, a hammer or a palm-sized rock, a roll of masking tape, one package of multi-colored tissue paper, a small jar of Mod Podge, a foam paint brush, newspaper to work on. |
The Voices of Baltimore Rising
In this course, we’ll hear - first-hand - the voices and stories of those who have been pulling the Baltimore community together in the five-year wake of the Freddie Gray uprising. We will also explore the problems in Baltimore, which have been described as “deep, profound, and decades in the making,” that led to the death of Freddie Gray and the subsequent Baltimore uprising. The course is facilitated by Genard “Shadow” Barr, whose community work is highlighted in the HBO documentary, Baltimore Rising. Along with Shadow, our teachers will be the community leaders, activists, and everyday plain folk, whose voices are rarely heard but who are making a difference for those who live in Baltimore. They will tell us their stories and the work they’ve been doing to improve the lives of their neighbors, and together we will explore how we can find Common Ground and assist them in the important work they are doing just 40 miles from “the Hill.” Period 3 ~ Genard “Shadow” Barr
In this course, we’ll hear - first-hand - the voices and stories of those who have been pulling the Baltimore community together in the five-year wake of the Freddie Gray uprising. We will also explore the problems in Baltimore, which have been described as “deep, profound, and decades in the making,” that led to the death of Freddie Gray and the subsequent Baltimore uprising. The course is facilitated by Genard “Shadow” Barr, whose community work is highlighted in the HBO documentary, Baltimore Rising. Along with Shadow, our teachers will be the community leaders, activists, and everyday plain folk, whose voices are rarely heard but who are making a difference for those who live in Baltimore. They will tell us their stories and the work they’ve been doing to improve the lives of their neighbors, and together we will explore how we can find Common Ground and assist them in the important work they are doing just 40 miles from “the Hill.” Period 3 ~ Genard “Shadow” Barr
Bluegrass & Old-Time Masterclass
Intended primarily for the DCBU campers, this class is open to all. Don’t miss this chance to learn from this assemblage of master bluegrass and old-time artists. A different artist will present each day, covering a variety of topics in a relaxed, informal and informative atmosphere. Bring your instruments, questions and voices – you never know what will happen! Period 3 ~ Che Apalache, Lonesome Ace Stringband, Tony & William Lee Ellis, Rodney Sutton, Jordan Tice
The Common Ground on the Hill Veterans Initiative
It is more important than ever to continue the work of the Common Ground on the Hill Veterans Initiative, a groundbreaking workshop that brings veterans and civilians together to share stories and check in with one another in a trusting and supportive environment, reflecting on the issues that affect their lives, and the role that the arts can play in nurturing veterans and society as a whole. Participants will continue to explore how we may work together to build the Initiative into a national year-round arts program. The class will include song, story, writing, and film. Come to this class prepared to learn, make friends and grow. Period 2 ~ Josh Hisle, Dan Collins
Discovering Brazilian Culture & Rhythms
Take an armchair tour of Brazil with Patricio Acevedo! This course will lead you through the fascinating history and culture of Brazil, the largest country in South America. Explore the music and instruments that create the unique sounds of Brazilian music, and learn to create the distinctive rhythms yourself. This companion class to Patricio's highly popular Brazilian Percussion Ensemble will leave you ready to join that class in years to come! Period 2 ~ Patricio Acevedo
Immigrants at Sea – Immigrants in the Desert
Although contexts may vary widely, the challenges and practices surrounding migration are remarkably similar across the globe. This workshop will consider the politics of migration using two different contexts: the hungry seas of the Central Mediterranean Route - through the lens and artistry of Mediterranean Hope, and the Sonoran Desert borderlands of Mexico and Arizona - through the lens of the Green Valley Samaritans and Common Ground on the Border. Borders may be physical, societal and metaphorical. We can all play a part in their construction and deconstruction. We will look at migration policy and at civil society’s response to its failings; the inspirational work of different organizations and the specter of criminalization of humanitarian aid. We will consider anti-migration rhetoric and the construction of counter-narrative; we will think about effective communication to raise awareness of issues which matter. Period 3 ~ Randy Mayer, Shura Wallin
Migration Sketches: Music of the Diasporas
Migrations have characterized much of human history and continue to do so. This timely program focuses on immigrants, migrations and associated music including the exodus of Roma people ("Gypsies") more than a thousand years ago from Northern India to Europe, the socially driven “Great Migration” from the US South to Urban centers like Harlem and Chicago's South Side, the climate induced movement of people in the U.S. during the Dust Bowl years, the economy-driven movement of people from the Caribbean to the U.S., the persecution-driven migration of people from Europe to the U.S., the famine induced movement of people from Ireland, and the commerce-driven “Middle Passage” of enslaved people from Africa. Tim Porter on mandolin and Joe Selly on guitar lead the discussion and demonstrate. Period 4 ~ Tim Porter, Joe Selly
Peace Education in the Classroom and with Adult Offenders
This class is taught by educator Paul Creighton who is the author of a peace education curriculum that has been employed in his native Scotland. We will be looking at the experience of peace education with children who have come from fragmented and dysfunctional backgrounds. We will explore their journey and how we can help them overcome the negative experiences which have impacted so greatly on their lives. We will use songs, film, poetry, and whatever vehicle makes their learning so meaningful. We will also explore the experiences of adult offenders who have embarked on a path that sets out to redirect their offending behavior. We will discover how we can all harness our anger as a force for good. In the time available we will just dip our toes in the water; but you will be inspired to take your learning back into your own communities. Period 1 ~ Paul Creighton
Public Sculptures: Process Lecture
Thomas Sterner will teach about the process of applying for, presenting, winning, navigating the approval steps, designing, building, and installing public sculptures. This is an informative class, taught by an artist who has created four monumental-size public sculptures in 2019 and 2020. His large public sculptures can be seen in Havre de Grace, Westminster, and Frederick. Period 4 ~ Thomas Sterner
Soul Alignment: Moving Forward in Uncertain Times
An instilled awareness of the soul can empower us to experience more resiliency, balance and joy in our daily lives. Informed by the instructor’s 40 years of educational and transformational work, this interactive and participatory class will help you to understand the value of aligning with your soul more consciously, learn to appreciate love as a source of power and healing, examine, monitor and release thoughts that obstruct the power of soul, and cultivate a deeper experience of love, wholeness and unity. Period 3 ~ Marya Michael
Stories, Customs and Traditions of the Woodland First Nations
Pun Plamondon, a master Ottawa storyteller and tradition bearer will facilitate a review of Great Lakes and Eastern Woodland First Nations practices from the ancient to the contemporary. This class has no homework, handouts or power points. Period 3 ~ Pun Plamondon
Women and the Blues
From Bessie Smith to Koko Taylor, Memphis Minnie to Bonnie Raitt, join this exciting class as we enjoy the vast contributions women have made to the blues - the foundation for popular American music. This is a class for guys, gals, and music lovers of all ages! This is going to be a fun-filled, educational experience. Be prepared to loosen up, clap your hands, sway to the rhythms, and sing the blues from the depths of your soul. Students are encouraged to compose their own 12-bar blues, with the option to perform in class on Friday. Period 4 ~ Eleanor Ellis, Lea Gilmore
Intended primarily for the DCBU campers, this class is open to all. Don’t miss this chance to learn from this assemblage of master bluegrass and old-time artists. A different artist will present each day, covering a variety of topics in a relaxed, informal and informative atmosphere. Bring your instruments, questions and voices – you never know what will happen! Period 3 ~ Che Apalache, Lonesome Ace Stringband, Tony & William Lee Ellis, Rodney Sutton, Jordan Tice
The Common Ground on the Hill Veterans Initiative
It is more important than ever to continue the work of the Common Ground on the Hill Veterans Initiative, a groundbreaking workshop that brings veterans and civilians together to share stories and check in with one another in a trusting and supportive environment, reflecting on the issues that affect their lives, and the role that the arts can play in nurturing veterans and society as a whole. Participants will continue to explore how we may work together to build the Initiative into a national year-round arts program. The class will include song, story, writing, and film. Come to this class prepared to learn, make friends and grow. Period 2 ~ Josh Hisle, Dan Collins
Discovering Brazilian Culture & Rhythms
Take an armchair tour of Brazil with Patricio Acevedo! This course will lead you through the fascinating history and culture of Brazil, the largest country in South America. Explore the music and instruments that create the unique sounds of Brazilian music, and learn to create the distinctive rhythms yourself. This companion class to Patricio's highly popular Brazilian Percussion Ensemble will leave you ready to join that class in years to come! Period 2 ~ Patricio Acevedo
Immigrants at Sea – Immigrants in the Desert
Although contexts may vary widely, the challenges and practices surrounding migration are remarkably similar across the globe. This workshop will consider the politics of migration using two different contexts: the hungry seas of the Central Mediterranean Route - through the lens and artistry of Mediterranean Hope, and the Sonoran Desert borderlands of Mexico and Arizona - through the lens of the Green Valley Samaritans and Common Ground on the Border. Borders may be physical, societal and metaphorical. We can all play a part in their construction and deconstruction. We will look at migration policy and at civil society’s response to its failings; the inspirational work of different organizations and the specter of criminalization of humanitarian aid. We will consider anti-migration rhetoric and the construction of counter-narrative; we will think about effective communication to raise awareness of issues which matter. Period 3 ~ Randy Mayer, Shura Wallin
Migration Sketches: Music of the Diasporas
Migrations have characterized much of human history and continue to do so. This timely program focuses on immigrants, migrations and associated music including the exodus of Roma people ("Gypsies") more than a thousand years ago from Northern India to Europe, the socially driven “Great Migration” from the US South to Urban centers like Harlem and Chicago's South Side, the climate induced movement of people in the U.S. during the Dust Bowl years, the economy-driven movement of people from the Caribbean to the U.S., the persecution-driven migration of people from Europe to the U.S., the famine induced movement of people from Ireland, and the commerce-driven “Middle Passage” of enslaved people from Africa. Tim Porter on mandolin and Joe Selly on guitar lead the discussion and demonstrate. Period 4 ~ Tim Porter, Joe Selly
Peace Education in the Classroom and with Adult Offenders
This class is taught by educator Paul Creighton who is the author of a peace education curriculum that has been employed in his native Scotland. We will be looking at the experience of peace education with children who have come from fragmented and dysfunctional backgrounds. We will explore their journey and how we can help them overcome the negative experiences which have impacted so greatly on their lives. We will use songs, film, poetry, and whatever vehicle makes their learning so meaningful. We will also explore the experiences of adult offenders who have embarked on a path that sets out to redirect their offending behavior. We will discover how we can all harness our anger as a force for good. In the time available we will just dip our toes in the water; but you will be inspired to take your learning back into your own communities. Period 1 ~ Paul Creighton
Public Sculptures: Process Lecture
Thomas Sterner will teach about the process of applying for, presenting, winning, navigating the approval steps, designing, building, and installing public sculptures. This is an informative class, taught by an artist who has created four monumental-size public sculptures in 2019 and 2020. His large public sculptures can be seen in Havre de Grace, Westminster, and Frederick. Period 4 ~ Thomas Sterner
Soul Alignment: Moving Forward in Uncertain Times
An instilled awareness of the soul can empower us to experience more resiliency, balance and joy in our daily lives. Informed by the instructor’s 40 years of educational and transformational work, this interactive and participatory class will help you to understand the value of aligning with your soul more consciously, learn to appreciate love as a source of power and healing, examine, monitor and release thoughts that obstruct the power of soul, and cultivate a deeper experience of love, wholeness and unity. Period 3 ~ Marya Michael
Stories, Customs and Traditions of the Woodland First Nations
Pun Plamondon, a master Ottawa storyteller and tradition bearer will facilitate a review of Great Lakes and Eastern Woodland First Nations practices from the ancient to the contemporary. This class has no homework, handouts or power points. Period 3 ~ Pun Plamondon
Women and the Blues
From Bessie Smith to Koko Taylor, Memphis Minnie to Bonnie Raitt, join this exciting class as we enjoy the vast contributions women have made to the blues - the foundation for popular American music. This is a class for guys, gals, and music lovers of all ages! This is going to be a fun-filled, educational experience. Be prepared to loosen up, clap your hands, sway to the rhythms, and sing the blues from the depths of your soul. Students are encouraged to compose their own 12-bar blues, with the option to perform in class on Friday. Period 4 ~ Eleanor Ellis, Lea Gilmore
Everyday Nonviolence in a Crazy World
It is difficult to work with others when we think they are crazy or no good. It is also difficult to see how personalizing problems actually makes them harder to solve. Nonviolence offers practical skills for dealing with difficult people over a wide range of situations. We will explore these skills using real examples. Period 2 ~ Charles Collyer, Pamela Zappardino
Finding Common Ground Through Cinema & the Arts
In collaboration with representatives from multiple disciplines, including film, music, and mural art from Baltimore, filmmaker Michael R. Faulkner and Social Work professor Jim Kunz will guide attendees through interactive conversations focused on creating community with art. Participants will view and discuss a series of works with their creators in an engaging classroom setting. This course is a great resource for teachers and other individuals who want to utilize the powers of cinema and multidisciplinary inquiry to spark new perspectives, foundations for mutual understanding, and cross-cultural exchange through discourse. Period 4 ~ Mike Faulkner, Jim Kunz
Gender Wars No More
“Is a hug ok? What about that kiss on the cheek to say hello? When did pronouns become so confusing? It seems like I can’t move or speak without offending someone or being accused of sexual harassment!” The social norms and expectations around sex and gender are in flux, sometimes leading people (especially heterosexual men) to feel frustrated, confused, attacked, frightened, angry, and/or left out. In this course we’ll discuss the changing landscape of gendered norms and relationships and the tension around these issues. We’ll then visualize positive new ways to relate to one another to move us from gender war to gender peace in the 21st century. Period 3 ~ Roxanna Harlow
Icons of the Blues
Andy Cohen has spent a lifetime rubbing elbows and playing music with some of the greatest of the traditional blues artists. He connected and sometimes toured with Jim Brewer, Dan Smith, Daniel Womack, Rev. Gary Davis, John Jackson, Libba Cotten, Etta Baker, John Cephas, Archie Edwards, Honeyboy Edwards, Algia Mae Hinton, Bessie Jones, Ted Bogan, Howard Armstrong, Pigmeat Jarrett, Big Joe Duskin and a couple dozen other blues people. For those of us who think of these roots blues musicians as people from the past, here is a chance to connect with them in an authentic way. This class will feature Andy’s stories and archival film and recordings, bringing these remarkable artists back to life. Period 4 ~ Andy Cohen
The Race/ Privilege / Tribalism Myth of the Melting Pot
Privilege is a word heard often in Social Justice spaces. Many find the concept confusing and offensive. If you are willing to learn about privilege and don’t know where to start, here is a safe place to clarify. Please note there has been a great deal of scholarly research on this topic. We are only skimming the surface to allow you to continue your personal privilege journey in your family, school and community. Expect vigorous discussion as we learn and teach and build community. Period 4 ~ Larry Brumfield
Social Change, Cultural Resistance and the Religious Imagination
Enjoy a week-long class with Octavio Carrasco, which will visit three distinct topics. The class will visit the Mayas of Guatemala and learn how they adapted, interpreted and absorbed Christianity to protect and prolong their way of life. Secondly, the class will investigate the religious dimensions of popular music. While emerging forms of music are almost always shunned or labeled as dangerous, we are entering a time when popular music is one of the centers of cultural identity and performance. Finally, Octavio asks us to consider the complex relationship of the cultural encounter of Europeans, Africans and Aborigines that defines U.S. history, it becoming imperative to consider the ways the entire country is a borderlands. This moves beyond our modern conceptions of states and connects us back to the process of settlement, displacement, and development that is going on even now. All three topics will encourage discussion and reflection. Period 2 ~ Dr. Octavio Carrasco
Stories of the Civil Rights Movement
Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream. Many know these basic facts about the American Civil Rights Movement. Some know a bit about the movement and its campaigns. Few people, however, know the personal stories of the people who were the movement, the people who made it happen, and the places where they stood strong. Pam and Charlie from our Zepp Center (with some help from their friends) will share the stories collected over 20 years of travel across the south studying the movement and meeting the people who lived it. Stories of Amelia Boynton Robinson, John Lewis, Viola Liuzzo, Bernard LaFayette, Dorothy Cotton, J.L. Chestnut, and more will bring the movement alive for you, and give you new insight into the foot soldiers - and leaders - of the movement, and why these stories are relevant today. Period 3 ~ Charles Collyer, Pamela Zappardino
The Story of Appalachia Through its Women of Music
The powerful and moving story of Appalachia is experienced through the eyes, ears and voices of its musical queens: early songcatchers Olive Dame Campbell, Emma Bell Miles, and Katherine Jackson French; early recording artists Samantha Bumgarner and Nonnie Smith Presson; Barn Dance radio stars Lullabelle and Lily Mae Ledford & the Coon Creek Girls; Sarah and Maybelle Carter of the Carter Family ; activist musicians Aunt Molly Jackson and Florence Reece; early country icon Patsy Cline; the mother of folk music Jean Ritchie; and the divine Dolly Parton. We’ll see how gender roles both aided and restricted these women, and how their experiences resonate in today’s music world. Lecture, videos, and listening will be interspersed with singing songs from the repertoire of these important women, whose music and actions helped shape American history. Period 3 ~ Liza DiSavino
It is difficult to work with others when we think they are crazy or no good. It is also difficult to see how personalizing problems actually makes them harder to solve. Nonviolence offers practical skills for dealing with difficult people over a wide range of situations. We will explore these skills using real examples. Period 2 ~ Charles Collyer, Pamela Zappardino
Finding Common Ground Through Cinema & the Arts
In collaboration with representatives from multiple disciplines, including film, music, and mural art from Baltimore, filmmaker Michael R. Faulkner and Social Work professor Jim Kunz will guide attendees through interactive conversations focused on creating community with art. Participants will view and discuss a series of works with their creators in an engaging classroom setting. This course is a great resource for teachers and other individuals who want to utilize the powers of cinema and multidisciplinary inquiry to spark new perspectives, foundations for mutual understanding, and cross-cultural exchange through discourse. Period 4 ~ Mike Faulkner, Jim Kunz
Gender Wars No More
“Is a hug ok? What about that kiss on the cheek to say hello? When did pronouns become so confusing? It seems like I can’t move or speak without offending someone or being accused of sexual harassment!” The social norms and expectations around sex and gender are in flux, sometimes leading people (especially heterosexual men) to feel frustrated, confused, attacked, frightened, angry, and/or left out. In this course we’ll discuss the changing landscape of gendered norms and relationships and the tension around these issues. We’ll then visualize positive new ways to relate to one another to move us from gender war to gender peace in the 21st century. Period 3 ~ Roxanna Harlow
Icons of the Blues
Andy Cohen has spent a lifetime rubbing elbows and playing music with some of the greatest of the traditional blues artists. He connected and sometimes toured with Jim Brewer, Dan Smith, Daniel Womack, Rev. Gary Davis, John Jackson, Libba Cotten, Etta Baker, John Cephas, Archie Edwards, Honeyboy Edwards, Algia Mae Hinton, Bessie Jones, Ted Bogan, Howard Armstrong, Pigmeat Jarrett, Big Joe Duskin and a couple dozen other blues people. For those of us who think of these roots blues musicians as people from the past, here is a chance to connect with them in an authentic way. This class will feature Andy’s stories and archival film and recordings, bringing these remarkable artists back to life. Period 4 ~ Andy Cohen
The Race/ Privilege / Tribalism Myth of the Melting Pot
Privilege is a word heard often in Social Justice spaces. Many find the concept confusing and offensive. If you are willing to learn about privilege and don’t know where to start, here is a safe place to clarify. Please note there has been a great deal of scholarly research on this topic. We are only skimming the surface to allow you to continue your personal privilege journey in your family, school and community. Expect vigorous discussion as we learn and teach and build community. Period 4 ~ Larry Brumfield
Social Change, Cultural Resistance and the Religious Imagination
Enjoy a week-long class with Octavio Carrasco, which will visit three distinct topics. The class will visit the Mayas of Guatemala and learn how they adapted, interpreted and absorbed Christianity to protect and prolong their way of life. Secondly, the class will investigate the religious dimensions of popular music. While emerging forms of music are almost always shunned or labeled as dangerous, we are entering a time when popular music is one of the centers of cultural identity and performance. Finally, Octavio asks us to consider the complex relationship of the cultural encounter of Europeans, Africans and Aborigines that defines U.S. history, it becoming imperative to consider the ways the entire country is a borderlands. This moves beyond our modern conceptions of states and connects us back to the process of settlement, displacement, and development that is going on even now. All three topics will encourage discussion and reflection. Period 2 ~ Dr. Octavio Carrasco
Stories of the Civil Rights Movement
Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream. Many know these basic facts about the American Civil Rights Movement. Some know a bit about the movement and its campaigns. Few people, however, know the personal stories of the people who were the movement, the people who made it happen, and the places where they stood strong. Pam and Charlie from our Zepp Center (with some help from their friends) will share the stories collected over 20 years of travel across the south studying the movement and meeting the people who lived it. Stories of Amelia Boynton Robinson, John Lewis, Viola Liuzzo, Bernard LaFayette, Dorothy Cotton, J.L. Chestnut, and more will bring the movement alive for you, and give you new insight into the foot soldiers - and leaders - of the movement, and why these stories are relevant today. Period 3 ~ Charles Collyer, Pamela Zappardino
The Story of Appalachia Through its Women of Music
The powerful and moving story of Appalachia is experienced through the eyes, ears and voices of its musical queens: early songcatchers Olive Dame Campbell, Emma Bell Miles, and Katherine Jackson French; early recording artists Samantha Bumgarner and Nonnie Smith Presson; Barn Dance radio stars Lullabelle and Lily Mae Ledford & the Coon Creek Girls; Sarah and Maybelle Carter of the Carter Family ; activist musicians Aunt Molly Jackson and Florence Reece; early country icon Patsy Cline; the mother of folk music Jean Ritchie; and the divine Dolly Parton. We’ll see how gender roles both aided and restricted these women, and how their experiences resonate in today’s music world. Lecture, videos, and listening will be interspersed with singing songs from the repertoire of these important women, whose music and actions helped shape American history. Period 3 ~ Liza DiSavino
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Course Lists with Instructor Names
Week 1 (6/29-7/3) |
Week 2 (7/6-10) |
Week 3 (7/13-17) |
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