Course Listings

Music

MUSC 187 Music Virtuosity Across Cultures (4)

TThis course explores the nature of virtuosity in music as culturally defined and constrained. With each musical tradition explored, students will also examine the culture’s specific values which define the terms of the music’s reception, and come to recognize how music is expressed through vocal or instrumental traditions. Is virtuosity performative, or even considered “art”? Is the virtuosity valued, or devalued? Indeed – how is virtuosity defined? Case studies will be taken from traditions that span history and the globe, and considered in terms of the value placed on speed, complexity, improvisational skill, and memory Connections of each tradition to dance and religion will also be discussed.

  • General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Arts & Humanities; World Engagement-CV
  • Offering: Alternate Fall semesters
  • Instructor: Coen

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