MUSC 229 Music in the Modern Era

In this course we will study the evolution of styles and genres from ca. 1900 to the present day, with a particular focus on the Western
traditional musical “canon.” The course will examine the transformation of musical language in both secular and sacred music genres.
The intellectual and cultural events of this same time will also claim our attention, on account of their very direct effects on composition,
performance, and aesthetics of music. Students will gain factual knowledge of these musical trends and traditions, as well as a broader
understanding of how historical forces have changed the music of these eras. In addition, through the final research paper and
presentation students will develop their oral and written skills.