By Charlotte Li ’28
Between papers, problem sets, and stacked readings, it can be hard to remember that learning doesn’t always took place in a lecture hall. Next Semester, Wesleyan is offering a remarkable lineup of music and dance courses rooted in cultures from West Africa, South Asia, East Asia, Central Asia, Brazil, and beyond. Every single one is open to complete beginners. Whether you are looking for a low-pressure introduction or a more immersive, performance-based experience, these courses offer a unique way to broaden your perspective and connect with global cultures beyond the classroom.
Check out the list below and save a space for them as you are planning out your Fall 2026 Pre-registration!
Introduction to South Indian Music
M.W. 01:20PM–02:40PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
This course introduces students to South Indian musical traditions, focusing on melody (raga) and rhythm (tala), alongside cultural, historical, and performance contexts.
Note: Beginner-friendly; no prior experience required. Moderate commitment (lecture + light performance components).
Music of Central Asia: From Throat-singing to Heavy Metal
T.R. 02:50PM–04:10PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
Explores diverse Central Asian musical traditions and their cultural, historical, and global contexts, with some hands-on components.
Note: Beginner-friendly; no prior experience required. Moderate commitment (reading, listening, creative assignments).
Korean Drumming and Creative Music Ensemble
W 01:00PM–03:00PM (+ TA session) | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
A hands-on percussion ensemble focused on Korean drumming traditions, collaboration, and performance.
Note: Beginner-friendly, but higher commitment due to ensemble practice, required TA sessions, and performance expectations.
Beginning Taiko—Japanese Drumming Ensemble
M 01:00PM–03:00PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
Introduces Japanese taiko drumming through technique, cultural study, and ensemble performance.
Note: Beginner-friendly in skill level, but requires audition and instructor permission. Moderate to high commitment.
Chinese Music Ensemble
M.W. 04:30PM–06:00PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
A performance-based ensemble exploring traditional and modern Chinese music through rehearsals and performances.
Note: Beginner-friendly, but moderate to high commitment due to regular rehearsals and performance requirements; instructor permission required.
South Indian Voice—Beginning
M.W. 10:50AM–12:10PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
Teaches foundational South Indian vocal music through progressive song learning and performance practice.
Note: Beginner-friendly; designed for students with no prior vocal training. Moderate commitment (regular practice expected).
West African Music and Culture: Beginners
T.R. 08:50AM–10:10AM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
A performance-based introduction to West African music through drumming, singing, and cultural study.
Note: Fully beginner-friendly. Moderate commitment (participation and practice required).
Javanese Gamelan—Beginners
T.R. 10:20AM–11:40AM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA MUSC | Class description
Introduces Indonesian gamelan through ensemble performance and listening.
Note: Fully beginner-friendly; no prior experience required. Moderate commitment (ensemble participation).
Afro-Brazilian Dance I
M.W. 01:10PM–02:40PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA DANC | Class description
Explores Afro-Brazilian dance traditions through embodied practice and cultural context.
Note: Beginner-friendly; no prior dance experience required. Moderate physical and time commitment.
Spicy and Sweet—Bollywood Dance
M.W. 01:10PM–02:40PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA DANC | Class description
A high-energy introduction to Bollywood dance, focusing on choreography, expression, and cultural context.
Note: Fully beginner-friendly; no prior experience required. Moderate commitment; physically active but accessible.
Delicious Movement: Time Is Not Even, Space Is Not Empty
M (6:30–9:30PM) & Sun (2:30–6:00PM) | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA CEAS | Class description
An interdisciplinary movement seminar exploring body, time, and space through experimental practice and critical reflection.
Note: No prior dance experience required, but high commitment due to long class sessions, weekly assignments, and intensive final project.
West African Dance I
M.W. 06:40PM–08:10PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA DANC | Class description
Introduces West African dance through embodied learning and cultural exploration. Note: Beginner-friendly; no prior experience required. Moderate physical commitment.
Transforming Bodies: Movement and Agency in West Africa
M.W. 04:40PM–06:10PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA HIST, SBS HIST | Class description
Examines the role of the body in West African history through dance, ritual, and performance. Note: Beginner-friendly; no prior experience required. Moderate commitment (reading, discussion, analytical work).
Bharata Natyam I: Introduction of South Indian Classical Dance
M.W. 02:50PM–04:20PM | Gen Ed Area Dept: HA DANC | Class description
Introduces Bharatanatyam through technique, cultural context, and performance practice. Note: Beginner-friendly; designed as an introductory course. Moderate commitment with structured skill development.