| African Music, is a survey course representing selected musical cultures as representative of broader regions of the African continent. We will explore their stylistic features, along with social, political, historical, and geographical elements, which have shaped these traditions. In addition, students will be introduced to instruments particular to these musical cultures, along with genres, forms, and performance practice. Through readings, listening assignments, lectures, and discussions students will learn to identify key elements of these musical cultures. In addition to understanding the relationship the music has with the cultural values and history of each society, we will also relate elements of African music and culture with our own musical and cultural experiences. No previous musical knowledge is required for this course. Students will develop vocabulary and critical listening skills to aid them in recognizing and identifying the representative musical materials and discussion of key topics. Some topics include: talking drums, Poro and Sande secret societies, and music of the Mbuti people of the Ituri forest, Afrobeat, South African music and apartheid.
Course Prerequisites: No previous musical experience is necessary |
| Introduces the student to music from all over the world, and expands concepts of music in the process. Students learn about different instruments from other cultures and how they influence the music they produce, and explore common features of Asian, European, African, American, and Oceanic music. Students also learn different ways of listening. Designed for non-majors. Requires no musical background. |
