Deep Cuts and Conversations — that is the name of an event held at the Norman Levan Center three times a semester. But what does it entail? It may not be what you expect. “Deep Cuts and Conversations” provides an environment for people to listen to and talk about different pieces of music.
Reggie Williams, director of the Levan Center and a philosophy professor, was joined by Kyle Burnham and Timothy Heasley of the school’s music department for this gathering.
“I’m just trying to help students and community members, for that matter, love music the way we do,” said Williams. “And also, to help them understand music, not just in terms of background noise, if you will, but also to dabble a little bit and appreciate a little bit of the cultural significance of music. “Williams said each “Deep Cuts and Conversations” session involves listening to music and talking in depth about the piece afterwards.
“In my opinion, these sessions are at their best when we talk at least as much as we listen,” said Williams. “There’s so much I can say about these artforms about their cultural significance. “According to Williams, the topic of each “Deep Cuts and Conversations” session can vary between guilty pleasures, protest songs, controversial songs and fusion songs that encompass different cultures.
“It’s ultimately an attempt to try to help students realize the significance of music, and so the more we can get them into it, the happier I am,” Williams said.
Deep Cuts and Conversations isn’t just open to students either. Like all Levan Center events, the session is open to the public. “It’s open to everyone and I love all of that,” said Williams. “One of my real goals has been to try to break down barriers… I am always trying to be inclusive in all senses. “If you are interested in attending a “Deep Cuts and Conversations” session, Williams said sessions are held three times during the spring semester in February, March, and April, and in September, October and November during the fall semester.
The next session will be held Wednesday, April 10 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.