Introductory explorations of topics in music history (encompassing art, popular, and folk musics) approached through musicological and interdisciplinary lenses and addressing historical change over time. The topic may address a specific composer, group, movement, era, or genre, or a particular theme or issue in music history. Promotes skills in historical thinking, interpretation, awareness of social/cultural influences on music, writing, and critical thinking. May be offered as a W. No prerequisites.
| Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | 1/2-1 course |
Fall Semester information
290B: Musicology Topics:Music and the Vietnam War
During and after the American War in Vietnam, diverse musical artists responded to the conflict and the cultural rupture it created. This course explores musical activity related to the Vietnam War from many angles: protest music and pro-war propaganda in the U.S., music by and for American military forces, and traditional and contemporary Vietnamese music. We will study music from styles ranging from postmodern, experimental, and art music to folk, country, jazz, rock, Broadway musicals, and film. We will pay special attention to how music intersects with race, class, gender, and generational identities. The course will also consider how Americans have remembered and tried to make sense of the Vietnam War in the fifty years since it ended. Through the lens of music, we will come to terms with the political and cultural history of the Vietnam War, the legacy of which continues to shape present-day politics and culture in the United States. As a W course, we will practice research, writing, and revising.