Current course offerings

Please Note: Course profiles marked as not available may still be in development.

Course description

This course introduces students to the integral role of music in the development of Western cultures from the Renaissance to the present time. Music is examined both as an artefact of Western cultures and as an agent of change within them. Canonic works are considered within their broader social, political and historical contexts. Diversity of music-making amongst all communities of practitioners and listeners will inform the selection of works for appraisal and analysis. For example, the course will examine the ways Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performers use, challenge and resist Western music traditions to create new and exciting forms. Students will develop their ability to listen critically to Western music as well as reading critically around it. Through engagement with the materials and ideas of this course, students will develop insights which will support their broader understanding of major themes and directions running throughout Western cultures.

Archived offerings