Topics in Music Theory II: Funk

Course Description

Rotating theoretical and/or analytical topics outside the Western art music tradition such as Intercultural Encounters, Global Pop Music, Hollywood Harmony, Funky Pitch Systems, Funky Rhythms & Asymmetric Meters, Feminist Music Theory & Embodiment, and Heavy Metal. Prerequisite: MUP 204 or MUS 215 or MUS 216; and MUS 207; Note: May be repeated once for credit when topic varies.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Identify by ear titles, artists, and dates for representative songs.
  • Describe the evolution of funk in the USA from 1965-1975.
  • Create and perform an original song.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure Percentage/Points
Listening quizzes 20%
Homework assignments 20%
Midterm exam 20%
Final exam 20%
Final project 20%

Attendance/Participation:

Attendance/participation is not a graded component included in the student's final grade for this course.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

Portable Keyboard ($25).

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.