This course assumes no prior musical training. A listening-oriented study of music in the United States from colonial to contemporary times.
Special attention is given to the relationship of music to American society.
The historical survey begins with the earliest notated music of colonial America and progresses up to the music resulting from the impact of modern technology on the rich variety of cultivated, folk, and popular styles in the United States. Concert works by Gottschalk and composers of the 2nd New England School. Vernacular works by Foster, Sousa and Joplin. Sacred music of the Moravians and Shakers. Specifically, the works of Aaron Copland, William Grant Still and Charles Ives are required.