MUSIC 160 - Introduction to World Music

Credits: 3
Lecture Contact Hours: 3
Description: This course is an introduction to world music designed to increase understanding of performance practices and traditions from regions that may include Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas. The focus of this course is an exploration of musical structure, style and function as it is expressed through and influenced by global cultures. Prior technical musical knowledge is not required, but outside listening and attendance at a live musical performance is required.

Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Recommended: None.

Course Category: Liberal Arts | Humanities
This course counts toward Schoolcraft’s General Education Requirements.
This course counts toward a Michigan Transfer Agreement General Education Requirement.

This Course is Typically Offered: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
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Course Competencies

Characterize the formal elements common to all music (i.e., melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, timbre, dynamics and form).
Compare instruments, performance practices and rituals of world music.
Explore the various media (vocal, instrumental, etc.) used in a world musical production.
Examine the role, value and function of music in world cultures.
Compare the stylistic characteristics of music using terminology relevant to world music.
Explain the cultural, philosophical and political influences of world music.
Compare non-Western music with Western music.
Critique a live world music performance.
Explore world music influences on personal music culture.
Explain the extent to which world music traditions intersect with the sociocultural traditions of personal life experience.