Workshop on recording spoken histories scheduled for April 23

As part of the Rochester Oral History Archive (ROHA) project, a workshop for local youngsters ages 10 and up who want to learn how to record oral histories will be held from 1-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, in Oakland University’s Kresge Library.

All that participants need to bring to the “Family Stories to Go” workshop is an adult partner – a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher, neighbor or any other special adult – who has a story to tell. Recording equipment will be provided.

At the workshop, facilitators will guide participants through the process of interviewing and recording, and will assist in downloading finished audio files. Participants can either bring a flash drive to store their files, or e-mail them for later downloading.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn about their own family stories,” said Cornelia Pokrzywa, ROHA project manager and special lecturer in OU’s Department of Writing and Rhetoric. “We’ve had community recording events with OU students who recorded seniors at the OPC senior center, and this workshop will teach younger students how to preserve a family story with an adult partner.” 

Space in the workshop is limited to 12 pairs of participants and the cost is $40 per pair. Participants who register in advance can enter a contest for a fee waiver by completing a form describing what they would like to know about their family history and why it is important to find out the answer. The contest will be closed on Sunday, April 10, and a winner will be announced on Monday, April 18th.

For more information or to register, visit the Family Stories to Go workshop web page. Information also is available by e-mailing the Meadow Brook Writing Project at mbwp@oakland.edu or by calling (248) 370-4151.

ROHA is a joint venture of the Meadow Brook Writing Project and Oakland University’s Department of Writing and Rhetoric. Rochester residents can record oral histories at no cost at ROHA community recording events. Those interested should visit the ROHA website to learn more about the project or to listen to stories.