LATINO MUSIC: MUSIC 102

Music of Latin America and the Caribbean

This course offers historical and cultural perspectives of Latin American music from its earliest forms to its present state.  Throughout our inquiry, we will examine the relationship between indigenous, African, and European cultures and how their interactions profoundly shaped the music of Latin America.   In a number of cases, we will see performances and historical videos concerning our subject matter.

Schechter, John M. Music in Latin American Culture: regional traditions. New York: NY, Schirmer Books, 1999. 

(You need to buy both the book and recordings, either cds or tapes.)

This will include material from the first three weeks of class. The emphasis is on how well you understand the lectures, readings, and musical examples. (20 pts.)

You are tested only on material after the midterm. Although the final is not cumulative, the introductory information you receive in the first part of the course will help you in the last part. Like your midterm, the emphasis is on how well you understand the lectures, readings, and musical examples. (25 pts.)

Writing Guidelines and Tips (you might have a look at this link before turning in any work you want evaluated)

Much of your work in this class involves discussing the reading assignments and carefully listening to the accompanying musical examples. I will assign assignments throughout the course to guide your reading and listening.  (10 pts.)

Your group presentation can serve as data for your research paper.  (15 pts.)

Exploring Diversity in the Music Cultures of Los Angeles and Orange County

Purpose

Develop an understanding of the difference between cultural identity and stereotypes through Los Angeles music cultures. Through this assignment students will take the theoretical perspective of music as a mode of cultural construction. Through this lens they will:

1. Develop an understanding of how individuals react as neighborhood population changes. Students will be asked to see themselves as both residents and newcomers.

2. Describe Los Angeles music cultures.

Activity/Evaluation

Students work in teams towards a multimedia presentation on a particular LA/Orange county culture and their music. Groups will be evaluated on how well they:

1. Present cultural information websites that connect to the neighborhoods explored. An example of this is the website of the Portuguese music culture I currently study: Portuguese Brass Bands

2. Organize and present any videos and/or images

3. Describe the music they hear

Students not involved in the presentation must comment in a Chat room/threaded discussion.

Be prepared to contribute to discussions. I realize this is a course in music and not Speech 101, but one of the benchmarks of the college-educated is the ability to verbalize thoughts logically and precisely. As you read, take note of what is difficult to grasp, what needs more examples, what you don’t agree with, as well as any positive comments you might have about the book and the course. These all show your preparation, thoughtful reading, and consideration.

Attendance is mandatory, see school catalog for official policy. If for any reason you fail to attend either the midterm or final, let me know as soon as possible. If your excuse is credible then I will give a make-up exam. I care about your progress and will try to help as much as possible.

What is music? Latino music? Why do we have music? What does music do for us? Assignment: Read Preface and Chapter 1

Continue with Chapter 1 (basic concepts, key terms)

Elements of Music and Culture

Discussion: Elements of Music and Culture

Chapter 2

Weeks 5-8 (Music of Mexico; Music of the Caribbean)

Chapter 2 continued, Video and Discussion

Ch. 4

Weeks 9-12 (Music of Central America: Marimba Music-Cultures)

Midterm

Chapter 3

Weeks 13-16 (Music of South America: Brazil, Peru, Chile; Ethnic Music-Cultures of Los Angeles)

Group Presentations

Chapter 5

Discussion: 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Concert Reports are due.

Weeks 17-18 (Music of Argentina; Cross-Cultural Analysis of Latin American Music-Cultures)

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Review for final

Final

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