Throughout the course we develop the skills necessary to listen to any work of music and make educated conclusions regarding its musical style, its composer, and the era in which it was composed. Grading is based on three exams and on other assignments. Explores the materials of music, i.e., melody, harmony, rhythm, tone color, form and mediums of expression. Surveys the basic style periods of music. Required outside listening to a wide variety of music and attendance at selected, appropriate live performances.
Assessment is by regular testing throughout the course, and a functional final exam.
The course surveys, through written and recorded examples, the most important collections and musical compositions that characterized the cultural climate of the New World from Colonial times through the nineteenth century. Musical materials associated with the Pilgrims, the Puritans, the Federalist era, and the Civil War are examined, as well as the music of African-Americans, early American theater, and specific composers such as William Billings and Stephen Foster. The course emphasizes a strong historical-sociological thrust, and it is hoped that the musical content will serve to promote a greater understanding of America's early history. The course features some visual material, such as films and slides. A course which will introduce the student to the basics of technology as it relates to teaching music in the schools.