Beyond the Music
Studying history through the lens of popular music
Class Options (meets once/week)
(Tues-4) 1:30-2:50
(Wed-4) 1:30-2:50
Pre-Requisites
None
One-Time Class Fee
$50
*See Notes
Course Description
Part music appreciation, part history, part pop culture literacy, this class familiarizes students with the works of numerous influential 20th century musicians and how their talent both impacted and was impacted by the times. From Duke Ellington to Dolly Parton, the Beatles to the BeeGees, students will get to know the artists and songs that defined each decade as well as the corresponding historical, cultural, and technological advances.
Multimedia presentations, artist profiles, debates, timelines, writing prompts, hands-on activities, and games are just some of the ways this class explores the artistry and influence of 20th century music.
Homework
The heart of this course is discovery, discussion, and interaction. There will be weekly at-home assignments, many of which require listening to a curated Spotify playlist for the artist/genre highlighted in class and then responding with a brief writing assignment, creative project, or deeper research to expand on the week's topic.
Approximate time outside of class: 1-2 hours/week, a large portion of which is active listening time.
Graduation Requirements
Notes
Students must have a Spotify Premium account in order to properly access the curated playlists for the homework assignments.
Class fee covers cost of custom binders with tabbed dividers, pencil case with 24-count fineliner pens, 11x17 printouts of decade timelines, and hundreds of custom printed stickers for timelines; YouTube premium subscription; all in-class printed handouts, activity supplies, and materials
Contact the instructor with questions.
Required Books & Materials
(Students are responsible for purchasing textbooks unless stated otherwise.)
Premium Spotify Account
Instructor will provide custom class binder and activity materials each week