Lifelong Learning Program expands to add Maymester

 | 03/09/2004

Lipscomb University is "jazzed up" about the addition of a Maymester class to its Lifelong Learning Program. The History of Jazz Music will be taught by Stephen Rhodes, professor of music and conductor of the Jazz Band at Lipscomb University. "We have always wanted to include a music course in our Lifelong Learning curriculum, but our music faculty are involved in their undergraduate classes at the times our courses are offered," said Patty Dugger, program director. "Adding this Maymester session allows us to offer some very interesting courses taught by our wonderful music faculty, beginning with Dr. Rhodes' jazz class." Part of the class time will consist of listening to music from each period of jazz's history including the Dixieland style from New Orleans, Swing, BeBop, and a variety of other styles. The class will discuss how each style was developed and the major figures of each style, Rhodes said. "I'm excited that we are offering a music class during the Maymester," Rhodes said. "I want to have a lot of fun with it. "This class is unique from general music courses because it focuses on one particular style of music. Jazz is the only musical form that is indigenous to America." The History of Jazz Music will meet once a week for four weeks. The Lifelong Learning Program is still accepting enrollees for the Spring Session II classes, which will be held March 22-April 23. Spring Session II classes meet once a week for five weeks. Courses offered in the Spring Session II and their instructors: Literary Nashville, Dr. Dennis Loyd, retired professor of English; England's Five Greatest Monarchs, Dr. Jerry Gaw, professor of history and published British historian; Floral Design - Design, Selection of Flowers, Demonstrations, Dr. Randy Bouldin, professor of Math and florist; Computer I, Al Austelle, associate professor of computer science and director of the Center for Instructional Technology at Lipscomb. The Lifelong Learning Program is designed to offer those of retirement or semi-retirement age an opportunity to expand knowledge and explore new ideas in an informal, noncompetitive environment. There are no tests and no previous educational requirement, Dugger said. The cost is $50 per person for one class. Individuals may take two classes during the same session for $75. For two people who live at the same address and are enrolled for classes, the cost is $75 for the two. Some classes may require the purchase of a textbook. Suggested or required textbooks may be purchased in the university bookstore or at registration. For a complete schedule or to register for classes, call 279.5733 or toll-free at 800.333.4358, ext. 5733, e-mail patty.dugger@lipscomb.edu or visit http://lifelonglearning.lipscomb.edu.