EDF3124 - Introduction to world music

Leader: Dr R Smith

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to a study of music in culture through selected cases studies which may be drawn from: Africa; Europe; Japan; China; Indonesia; and India. Topics emphasised will include musical change and transmission; universals in music; musical instruments; and ethno-musicological methods. Students will make a detailed study of selected recordings and videos, with emphasis on an understanding of the cultural context of the performance.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to: demonstrate familiarity with the main forms, styles and repertoire of selected musical cultures; demonstrate familiarity with aspects of the social structure, history and cultural practices of the selected areas; show an understanding of the ways in which a musical tradition is formed, preserved and changed within a culture; distinguish aurally the different styles of music studied; demonstrate an understanding of form, style and function in the musics studied through participation in practical creative and recreative exercises; and demonstrate an understanding of some of the methods used in ethnomusicology by applying them to a familiar aspect of music performance in their own culture.

Assessment

Written assignment (2,400 words): 60%
Class test (1,600 words equivalent): 40%

Contact hours

2 hours per week