MUS3910 - Music of Sub-Saharan Africa

Leader: Graeme Smith

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

Musical, aesthetic, social and ritual concepts and practices as expressed in the musical life of sub-Saharan African cultures, with particular reference to selected performances of music and dance, and the topology of musical instruments in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should have:

1. A practical knowledge of a variety of performance issues in the musical traditions of sub-Saharan Africa.
2. A knowledge of the history, musical styles and socio/cultural function of different performance genres.
3. A fundamental understanding of the unusual variety of musical instruments in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Assessment

Written (2000 words): 40%
Analysis assignment: 30%
Examination (2 hours): 30%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour lecture) per week