Annotation
Western art music was traditionally studied by historical musicologists, but more and more ethnomusicologists focus on it also, and bring to this area of study a fresh approach through an ethnographic method and sociocultural perspective. In addition, ‘new’ musicologists (and sociologist of Western art music) also started in the last three decades to employ more interdisciplinary methodology in their examinations.
In this course, we will look into some of these new contributions from ethnomusicology, ‘new’ musicology (and sociology) to the study of Western art music that either (1) use ethnographic method, and/or (2) approach it via sociocultural analysis and critical theory, particularly focusing in this regard on the analysis of social power relations (in regard to race, class, gender, and sexuality). The course will include the following themes: implications of race, class, gender, and sexuality in Western art music and culture, orientalism and exoticism in Western art music, the study of orchestra as a social and cultural entity, ethnography of Western art music performance, critical analysis of Western art music ideologies (‘genius,’ ‘talent,’ ‘taste,’ ‘autonomous work’), Western art music in non-Western countries, contemporary trends in Western art music culture, and perspectives on political, technological, economical, and place dimensions in Western art music.
The seminar is based on close readings, class discussions, short writing assignments, and media-enhanced lectures. Students will also be required to attend two concerts, and to conduct a mini ethnographic research.
Offered for BA and MA students (5 credits). Some basic preliminary background knowledge from cultural studies, critical theory, anthropology, musicology, and/or ethnomusicology is preferable, but not required.