MEME Ensemble: The Rap Cypher & Freestyle Performance

The rap cypher is more than rappers freestyling (improvising) in a circle. It is a circle of possibility, a circle of immediate knowledge production, a circle of deep listening and a circle of unconventional citation. In this ensemble, we will develop a freestyle practice by investigating composer Pauline Oliveros’ Deep Listening Theory inside the context of hip-hop through lyrical and musical analysis. Through research and improvisational practice, we will explore these questions: What can I “hear” in the beat, in the room, in the present cypher that I can converse with / build upon? How can I use imperfection to my advantage? Classes will focus on deep listening analysis of music and videos, discussion of readings, freestyle exercises, and rap cypher workshops. The course culminates in in a live public rap cypher.