Introduction to Music (MUSC-1030)

Overview

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An introduction to the development of music, with an emphasis on art music of the Western hemisphere. Topics include elements of music, instruments and ensembles, form, styles and periods, including major composers and works. Synthesis is encouraged through listening to and writing about music.

Syllabus

The course is laid out in seven modules, each of which includes several video lectures, a self-grading quiz, and suggested activities for further study. Most modules also include links to biographies of composers discussed in the videos and to relevant material that supports the music you will be listening to. The videos often have links to YouTube videos, but are also accessible through the instructor's playlist.

Module 1: Course Introduction; Beat; Rhythm; Melody; Harmony; Tonality; Tempo; Dynamics; Articulations
Module 2: Texture; Form; Instruments and Ensembles; Overview of style periods
Module 3: Genres; Music before the Baroque
Module 4: The Baroque Period
Module 5: The Classical Period
Module 6: The Romantic Period I
Module 7: The Romantic Period II
Module 8: The Modern Period