MUSIC
MUR 125—4 credits
History of Rock Music
Session A-4wk (May 19-June 13)
MTWRF 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Todd 202F
CRN 16579; C. Asmussen
This course will explore the history of rock music, emphasizing primarily the period between 1955 and 1990. The periods preceding (1900-1955) and following (1990-present) will be considered to a limited extent. Discussion and reading will focus mostly on the music, identifying a wide variety of rock-music styles within the historical context of the development, transformation, and interaction of pop styles of these decades in general. Issues of technological development, social, political, and cultural context, race and gender, and music-business practices will also be considered. No prerequisites: Knowledge of technical musical terms and an ability to read music are NOT required for this course.
MUR 163—4 credits
Pop Songwriting
Session B-4wk (June 16-July 11)
MTWRF 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Todd 202F
CRN 19183; T. Declercq
This course will be a practical study in the craft of popular songwriting. The musical techniques and strategies used in songs from a variety of recent styles and genres will be discussed. Students will incorporate these techniques into writing their own songs, which will be presented in workshop-type settings. The ability to read music is NOT required, although basic proficiency on a musical instrument is strongly recommended.