American Music

This lecture and discussion course focuses on American music in its cultural context. Students will explore a range of issues concerning music’s relation to national and ethnic identity, historical events, societal conflicts, and philosophical, literary, and artistic movements. The class will study works from a variety of musical traditions: e.g., Native American, religious, classical, patriotic, blues, jazz, folk, Broadway, rock, and rap.

Evaluation will be based on class participation, two short papers, a midterm exam, and a final exam.

Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 15). Preference to students with demonstrated interest in American Studies or Music.