Department or Program: Music
Course Number: 115
Semester Hours: 3
Frequency Offered: Alternate Years
Course Title: Music of East and Southeast Asia

Catalog Description:

A survey of the music found in East and Southeast Asia, focusing on the music of China and Japan along with selected countries in Southeast Asia. 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 East and Southeast Asia" students study the music of these culture areas in depth, including the different ways in which Asian 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, while a quiet audience in the west is considered respectful, in China, silk and bamboo music is traditionally performed in teahouses and noisy conversation and background noise is expected and acceptable. 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 in East and Southeast Asia 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.

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 East and Southeast Asian 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 EAST AND SOUTHEAST ASIA

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:

"Music of East and Southeast Asia" is a survey course designed to present the music of major culture areas in East Asia to both the music major/minor and the general education student. Emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of the musical characteristics and traditions of representative Asian cultures. The defining principles and concepts in the field of ethnomusicology, the role of music in culture, and comparisons pointing to the rich variety of musical traditions and systems found in East and Southeast Asia will be considered within the scope of this study as well.

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:

Nettl, Bruno, Charles Capwell, Philip V. Bohlman, Isabel K.F. Wong, and Thomas Turino. Excursions in World Music, 2nd Edition. Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall, 1997.

Additional readings will be placed on reserve in Maxwell Library.

Course Outcomes:

Evaluation Criteria:

Tests: 100 points each Total Points: 370

listening journal: 50 points The grading scale is based on a percentage 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