MUS 359: Music of the Americas
TR 8:30 – 9:50 AM + 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.All course materials will be available on the course Canvas site. You will need to use a web-enabled device (e.g.smart phone, tablet, laptop) to participate in in-class activities.
