2. This class gave me a small idea of just how many forms of classical art music there are, and how western art music carries pieces of many cultures. As an American, I come from many ethnic backgrounds; I can simply trace my family lineage to unearth many diverse cultures. I am grateful to be able to become aware of the many different forms of beauty in the world. It is a privilege to take a step away from what I am familiar with, and immerse myself in the unknown. I have been taught to be open to new things, and perhaps that is one of the best aspects of my own culture: it is very open and accepting of all ethnicities.
3. I think I shall do some further exploring of the South Asian cultures. Dr. Weeks presentation of that realm of the world was particularly fascinating to me, mainly because it is so vastly different from anything I have ever known! I loved the temples, relics, and prayer flags. I always find out more about myself by learning about tenets of other faiths and peoples. By assuming the role of the omniscient observer, I can approach new ideas (some that may even be contrary to my own) with a blank slate, and gain a better understanding of myself, as well as a world foreign to me.