A-to-Z Index


GMUS 203: Music in America
This course surveys the vast panorama of American music, including folk, popular, classical, and regional styles. In addition to developing general musical knowledge and aural skills, the course emphasizes the historical and cultural influences on music making. It meets fine arts and American general education requirements. No previous musical background or knowledge is required.
The main objectives of this course are to:            
€ Provide skills and vocabulary to identify and analyze the expressive and formal content of music
€ Survey important developments in the American musical arts and be able to relate them to major American cultural, political, artistic, and intellectual forces
€ Gain greater knowledge of U.S. political and cultural history, as it affects and is affected by musical activities
€ Learn to understand the history of American music in terms of changes in both musical techniques and social values; recognize music as a site of celebration and struggle over relationships and ideals