Course Description:  In this workshop, participants will use the sounds and lyricism of Calypso music to form silver linings of optimism behind dark clouds of negative experiences.

Facilitator: Josanne Francis

Bio: Born and raised in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, Josanne Francis is an internationally known steelpan performer and music educator. She has under her belt, a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and a Master of Music performance degree. With hands that seem to move with a 'wand-like' touch, Josanne's music is not devoid of power when needed. Her music blends together and draws influences from traditional Calypso music, Jazz, Indian, Funk, Rock, and Classical music- a unique mix which is not typical for the instrument. Josanne has performed at venues such as the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall, and has appeared as a guest artist and clinician at festivals and universities across the United States. Josanne was one of 6 Artists in Residence at Strathmore for the 2017-2018 season and has presented at Arts Education and STEAM conferences. She currently serves as the Artistic Director of the Cultural Academy for Excellence, Inc. and runs her very own educational steelpan program called Steel on Wheels which has had residencies in Maryland, Washington DC, and New York.

Key Teaching and Learning Strategies explored in this course: 

• Perception - INCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION: Fully integrate models of making that reflects the cultural and lived experiences of the global society.

• The Creative Process Map - AESTHETIC REPERTOIRES: Gain fluency to shift between different systems that assign standards, expectations, and value.

• Facilitator Role - ARTIST HABITS OF MIND: Model and cultivate the Artist Habits of Mind. (Stretch & Explore)

To download the full MSDE Fine Arts Office Professional Learning Framework, please click here.