Department or Program: Music
Course Number: 116
Semester Hours: 3
Frequency Offered: Alternate Years
Course Title: Music of the Americas

Catalog Description:

A survey of music cultures found in the Americas focusing on Native American music from both North and South America along with additional selected music traditions from The Americas such as African American music and Latin American music among others. Designed for the general student as well as the Music Major or Minor. Offered alternate years.

A2C2 Approved Course: Yes

Requested Approval: Unity and Diversity -- Multicultural Perspectives

Contact person: Dr. Catherine Schmidt (243 PAC; 457-5256; cschmidt@winona.edu)

A. demonstrate knowledge of diverse patterns and similarities of thought, values, and belief as manifest in different cultures;

In "Music of the Americas" students study the music of various culture groups from North and South America in depth, including the different ways in which these cultures conceptualize and value music, how the music relates to the belief systems of the cultures, and the aesthetic values of the culture groups. Background materials discussed and used in developing an understanding of the music culture include the basic religious values of the culture group, historical information, and general cultural values. Students read and participate in class discussion and listen to and analyze the music with respect to their understanding of cultural context.

b. understand the extent to which cultural differences influence the interpretations and expression of events, ideas and experiences;

Students in this class examine the influence of cultural values and norms on the interpretation of musical events. Students learn about the differing views of performance context, audience-performer relationships, and the functions of music in relationship to deeply embedded cultural norms and values. For example, all music has a spiritual function and power for the Navajo. They believe that performing certain ceremonial songs out of context can have serious consequences in real life. By examining the differing expectations and values surrounding the music, students begin to understand how these cultural differences influence the way musical performances are experienced and how the music itself is perceived and interpreted.

This course looks at several specific cultures groups from North and South America through a careful examination of the music and its cultural context. Music is an expressive form that clearly provides a window for developing an understanding of diverse cultures and traditions.

Cultural understanding and insight are prerequisites for positive interactions between people of diverse cultural backgrounds. The course reading and listening assignments, class discussions, and videos, all focused on the music of North and South American culture groups, will provide a basis for developing these prerequisites and will help prepare students for future interactions with individuals from the culture groups they have studied.

MUSIC OF THE AMERICAS

9:00-9:50 am - Monday, Wednesday and Friday

Instructor: Cathy Schmidt Phone: 457-5256

Office: PAC 243 E-Mail: cschmidt@winona.edu

Course Description:

A survey of music cultures found in the Americas focusing on Native American music from both North and South America along with additional selected music traditions from The Americas such as African American music and Latin American music among others. Designed for the general student as well as the Music Major or Minor. Offered alternate years.

A. demonstrate knowledge of diverse patterns and similarities of thought, values, and beliefs as manifest in different cultures;

B. understand the extent to which cultural differences influence the interpretation and expression of events, ideas, and experiences;

C. examine different cultures through their various expressions; and

D. possess the skills necessary for interaction with someone from a different culture or cultural group.

Text:

There is no textbook for this course. Course readings will be placed on reserve at the library. Plan to Xerox these materials for study purposes. Budget for Xeroxing and perhaps purchasing one or two CD’s in lieu of buying a textbook.

Course Outcomes:

Evaluation Criteria:

Tests: 100 points each Total Points: 370

listening review: 100 points The grading scale is based on a percentage

Song/dance performance with reflective paper: 30 points of total points:

Participation in class discussion, 90% and above = A

Movie reviews/attendance, etc.: 20 points 80% - 89% = B

70% - 79% = C

60% - 69% = D

59% and below = F