Music 330 - Seminar: Music and Democracy

This course examines the role of music in democratic processes, including protest, revolution, and acts of citizenship. At the core of our inquiries are questions about the role of the musician in civic life, what the possibilities and responsibilities of musical citizenship might be, and whether and how music itself is significant to, and a form of, political participation. Case studies include the activism of Nina Simone, the use of music in the mass protests of 1968, the (mis)uses of music and arts in “urban redevelopment” projects, spontaneous song/chants (2020’s “You About To Lose Your Job” and the bell ringing that marked the early weeks of Covid), and musical models of democracy. Readings include a range of perspectives on democracy, including liberal theorists like Habermas and Fraser, educational theories of Paolo Freire and John Dewey, the arts advocacy of Maxine Greene, and others. Prerequisites: MUS 102 or 202. Enrollment limited to 12. Juniors and seniors only. Instructor permission required.

[CE] JR/SR only