Recording-2025-01-23T18:51:45.995Z

Introduction

• Dr. Hannah Durham, instructor for the music course.

• Email contact: Allow 24 hours for replies and resend if necessary.

• Works at another college in San Antonio on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Course Overview

• Purpose: Introduce students to Euro American (Western art music) styles from the Middle Ages to the present day.

• Three main discussion threads:

  • Musical Meaning: Exploration of meanings conveyed through music.

  • How It Works: Understanding the elements and structure of music.

  • Context-Specific Roles: Roles of music in various contexts.

• Objective: Develop awareness and appreciation of music's societal and individual significance beyond entertainment.

Course Objectives

• Skills Development:

  • Critical Thinking: Questioning assumptions about music and its context.

  • Critical Listening: Connecting concepts in class with other music and contexts.

• Measurable Goals:

  • Identify and describe musical style traits and technical aspects (melody, rhythm, harmony, texture, instrumentation).

  • Articulate historical, functional, and cultural contexts of music.

  • Formulate informed opinions on the role of Western art music in culture, supported by evidence (primary/secondary sources).

Course Materials

• Required Text: "The Enjoyment of Music" by Gil Antonio Machlis (2022).

• Access to a computer with reliable internet is necessary for assignments.

• Blackboard will be used for assignment submissions and attendance tracking.

Assessment Structure

• Participation:

  • Low-stakes exercises will occur most days; participation assessed accurately.

• Assignments:

  • Listening reports provided by the instructor.

  • Three exams with 50 questions each available on Blackboard.

Attendance Policy

• Regular attendance is crucial due to course pace.

• Excused absences include personal emergencies or religious observances; notify instructor beforehand.

• Maximum of 6 allowed absences; exceeding this will result in an automatic failure.

Classroom Etiquette and Technology Policy

• Use technology for note-taking; avoid distractions like texting or social media during class.

• Respect for peers and instructor is paramount, especially during discussions.

Academic Policies

• Review ACC policies on dropping courses and academic dishonesty, including plagiarism.

• Importance of personal growth in writing and assignment completion emphasized.

Weekly Calendar and Assignments

• Course schedule includes readings, listening guides, and key deadlines.

• Participation in class discussions is encouraged, with a focus on keeping up with readings.

Tips for Success

• Attend class regularly for best success.

• Stay current with readings and assignments.

• Communicate with the instructor for questions or help.

• Maintain a positive attitude and believe in your ability to succeed.

Fundamental Music Concepts

Melodic Concepts

• Melody: The main tune; characterized by its range (narrow, medium, wide).

• Contour: Describes the shape of a melody (ascending, descending, arch, static).

Rhythmic Concepts

• Beat: The basic unit of musical time; essential for rhythm.

• Meter: Organized beats providing structure; includes duple, triple, and compound meters.

• Rhythm: Movement of music in time; can be simple or complex (syncopation, polyrhythm).

Harmony Concepts

• Harmony: Describes vertical aspect; typically involves chords (triads, consonant vs dissonant harmony).

• Tonality: Organization around a tonic note; major and minor scales in Western music.

Texture Concepts

• Monophony: A single melodic line without accompaniment.

• Polyphony: Two or more independent melodic lines.

• Homophony: A principal melody accompanied by chords.

Activities and Group Work

• Students will engage in identifying musical ranges and textures in pairs or small groups as part of class activities.