Ethnomusicology

Ethnomusicology 1

Ethnomusicology 101 (Semester 1) introduces students to Ethnomusicology as it surveys music cultures of the world. Emphasis is on characteristics and functions of music within each cultural context.

Ethnomusicology 102 (Semester 2) surveys indigenous music of Africa and South African popular music.

Ethnomusicology 2

Semester 1 concentrates on readings in history of thought, theory and method in Ethnomusicology with emphasis on contemporary issues within the discipline. Semester 2 introduces students to Applied Ethnomusicology and includes a community outreach component. (Ethnomusicology 2/3 may be a combined course with Ethnomusicology 2 content being taught alternatively with Ethnomusicology 3 from one year to the next).

Ethnomusicology 3

Semester 1 concentrates on readings in field research methods, writing of field-notes and interviewing techniques, to include hands-on use of video and audio recording equipment and preparation of a fieldwork project proposal. Semester 2 involves execution of the fieldwork project and write-up of results. Special modules on areas of interest in cultural analysis may be incorporated. (Ethnomusicology 2/3 may be a combined course with Ethnomusicology 3 content being taught alternatively with Ethnomusicology 2 from one year to the next).

Ethnomusicology 4 (honours paper)

Semester 1 is a readings seminar with a focus on contemporary theory in Ethnomusicology and Cultural Studies. Students begin work on a chosen research project which culminates in preparation of an extended essay based on the research project in Semester 2.