Music - MUSIC 160

Course Description

This course is an introduction to world music designed to increase understanding of performance practices and traditions from regions that may include Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas. The focus of this course is an exploration of musical structure, style and function as it is expressed through and influenced by global cultures. Prior technical musical knowledge is not required, but outside listening and attendance at a live musical performance is required.

Prerequisites

(A requirement that must be completed before taking this course.)

Course Competencies

Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• Characterize the formal elements common to all music (i.e., melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, timbre, dynamics and form).
• Compare instruments, performance practices and rituals of world music.
• Explore the various media (vocal, instrumental, etc.) used in a world musical production.
• Examine the role, value and function of music in world cultures.
• Compare the stylistic characteristics of music using terminology relevant to world music.
• Explain the cultural, philosophical and political influences of world music.
• Compare non-Western music with Western music.
• Critique a live world music performance.
• Explore world music influences on personal music culture.
• Explain the extent to which world music traditions intersect with the sociocultural traditions of personal life experience.

Course Schedule