Dr. Kofi Gbolonyo

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Kofi Gbolonyo joined the University of British Columbia (UBC) School of Music as a Lecturer in September 2009, following the completion of his PhD in Ethnomusicology and a Graduate Certificate in African Studies from the University of Pittsburgh. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in Ethnomusicology as part of the UBC African Studies Minor Program and directs the UBC African Music Dance Ensemble. Gbolonyo's research focuses on West African traditional music and dance, particularly concerning Ewe indigenous knowledge, culture, and Orff-Schulwerk pedagogy. He is an internationally recognized music educator and clinician, actively leading workshops and presenting scholarly papers at annual meetings of professional associations. His extensive teaching experience spans various countries across Africa, Europe, South America, and Asia, promoting multicultural music education. He also founded the Nunya Music Academy and co-founded the Adanu Habobo Orff-Afrique Summer Programs in Ghana, highlighting his commitment to fostering music education and cultural exchange.

Research Interests

Experience

Lecturer

2009-09-01 — Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, BC

Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Ethnomusicology and directing African Music Dance Ensemble.

Director

2005-01-01 — 2009-01-01

African Music and Dance Ensemble, University of Pittsburgh • Pittsburgh, PA

Directed the African Music and Dance Ensemble while pursuing graduate studies.

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.