This course focuses on the interdisciplinary,study of aspects of American culture through its,music. We will explore the cultural,interrelationship of the social, political,,economic, historical and aesthetic influences,that have formed the context and development of,American music genres. Throughout we emphasize,popular, innovative and sometimes experimental,musical forms and their basis in individual,communities. In that process we explore what,seems to have made musical forms “speak” to our,ancestors and to us. We also explore how the,rise of mass-market music and the music industry,has affected this history. Classes combine,discussion of reading materials, discussion of,films, presentations from guest musicians and,music historians, and, above all, listening to,music.
Credits: 3
Prerequisites: WRT-102 and any 200 level Liberal Arts (General Education),subject.