MUS 359: Music of the Americas
TR 12:00-1:20 PM + Discussion Section, Room: Clinical Services 250 (CLS 250)
The Americas is a broad geographic expanse covering a range of cultures that is impossible to cover in-depth in a single academic term. There are ideas, however, that can help us bring important aspects of these cultures together: colonialism, processes of cultural exchange, and modernity. We will study these ideas through the music and cultures of at least three countries in the Americas (Brazil, Mexico, and Peru). No musical experience is necessary, but students will be asked to think through listening examples to understand why different musics sound the way they do. While we focus on three regions, the ideas are applicable throughout the Americas, including the United States. This course is designed to fulfill a Cultural Literacy Requirement.T 2:00-3:20 PM, plus half-hour sectional based on interest
General class description: One intellectual current within ethnomusicology is the idea of bi-musicality, or the ability to be fluent in more than one musical system. This course emphasizes the practice of music-dance from a specific region/culture and asks students to reflect on how this practice may compare with the musical systems they already have experience with. Students will be asked to take an embodied approach in learning. At the end of the term, students will share what they have learned with others through an end-of-term presentation. Students who may be interested in taking the class for additional credit (beyond 2.0 credits) can arrange to do additional work such as write an end-of-term research paper or produce a creative project related to region in question.
Specific description: This term is dedicated to learning about the music-dance traditions of Puerto Rico. Several of these are drumming traditions that invite participation (bomba and plena), and everyone will learn a tune in these genres. We will also explore the jibaro orchestra (cuatros / guitars / güicharo / bongó). Other traditions such as dance orchestra (strings, horns, and percussion) and beyond may also be available, depending upon what skills students bring with them to the class. All students will be expected to sing and perform basic dance steps. No prior musical experience necessary. Visiting guest artists may give additional guidance through concerts and workshops. Readings provided on Canvas. Instruments will be loaned for class as needed.