Examination of music videos from the 1980s until the present. Music videos will be treated as texts from which we can glean cultural understanding as well as explore new ways of analyzing aesthetic communication and musical meaning.

 

Examination of music videos from the 1980s until the present. Music videos will be treated as texts from which we can glean cultural understanding as well as explore new ways of analyzing aesthetic communication and musical meaning.

 

This version of the course will be taught as writing intensive, which means that the course will include substantial and ongoing writing assignments that a) relate clearly to course learning; b) teach the communication values of a discipline- for example, its practices of argument, evidence, credibility, and format; and c) prepare students for further writing in their academic work, in graduate school, and in professional life. The written assignments will result in a significant and diverse body of written work (the equivalent of 6000 words or 25 pages) and the instructor (and/or the teaching assistant assigned to the course) will be closely involved in student writing, providing opportunities for feedback and substantive revision.

 

Ear training involving chromatic melodic and harmonic materials.

Chromatic harmony involving part-writing, composition, and analysis.

Explores the history and aesthetics of film music. The course relies on three assumptions: 1) that a film's score fundamentally alters the viewer's perception of the film; 2) that the film's images affect the way the viewer hears the music; and 3) that the combination of music and images can have a much greater impact on the viewer than either medium alone.

A survey of musical styles created and/or developed by African Americans in North America from c. 17th century to the 21st century. Includes socio-cultural approach drawing from the African heritage to other continental appropriations. Key personalities in the development of the African American music culture and their contributions will also be examined.

A survey of musical styles created and/or developed by African Americans in North America from the 17th century to the 21st century. Includes a socio-cultural approach drawing from the African heritage to other continental appropriations. Key personalities in the development of the African American music culture and their contributions will also be examined.

Nontraditional Format:

This course will be taught 95% or more online.

The study of rock music from its origins to the present. Examination of the place of rock music in society, from its roots in African American blues and European American folk to its place in current society.

A study of piano accompanying repertoire (instrumental duo, concerto, art song, opera) through the lens of essential skills for the aspiring collaborative pianist. The repertoire for a specific elective under the umbrella of this course may be limited to either vocal or instrumental repertoire.

Solo or chamber recital in partial fulfillment of requirements for masters degrees.