On April 11, Oakland University will celebrate a big milestone: the 50th anniversary of its World Music program. The special concert will feature the OU African Drum and Xylophone Ensemble, known as Akwaaba, along with the OU Steel Band, called Pan-Jumbies. The star of the show will be Andy Narell, a world-renowned steel pan artist.
Mark Stone, a music professor at OU, highlights Narell’s influence in the field. “Like Marvin ‘Doc’ Holladay, who started our program, Andy Narell is a pioneer of World Music Studies in the U.S.,” he said. Holladay introduced traditional African music to jazz students, while Narell has opened the world of steel pan music to many American percussionists.
Narell’s journey began in 1979 when he released his first album. Since then, he has spent over four decades exploring how the steel pan fits into modern music. He’s not just a musician; he’s a bandleader and composer and has performed at jazz festivals across continents—from North America to Africa.
This concert isn’t just an event; it’s part of a long tradition. Marvin “Doc” Holladay established the World Music program at OU in 1975, following a vibrant career in jazz, working alongside legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Ella Fitzgerald. It’s fascinating to note that Holladay’s passion for African music stemmed from his studies in ethnomusicology. This close connection paved the way for understanding the roots of jazz, something he aimed to share with his students.
Though Holladay passed away in late 2024, his legacy continues. Mark Stone recalls how Holladay shaped their lives, turning music education at OU into a path of artistic discovery. They are even organizing a memorial event this summer to honor his contributions.
Interestingly, the program at OU reflects a broader trend. According to a survey by the National Endowment for the Arts, interest in world music has been increasing in the U.S. over the past few decades. This growing appreciation highlights how music can bridge cultures and create shared experiences.
At 8 p.m. in Varner Recital Hall, attendees can celebrate this milestone, engaging with a rich legacy of music that continues to evolve and inspire. Tickets are available for $10 here.
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