Course overview
Facilitate understanding of social, economic and political factors involved in the development of Afro-American music from its West African and European roots to the present day; develop the ability to analyse the specific stylistic features of each historical period of jazz, including transitional and related forms, and to identify major trends in the development of the music; develop ability to assess and place into historical perspective the innovations and developments of the major contributors from early jazz to contemporary styles. Topics include: analysis of various styles of jazz ranging from New Orleans to contemporary; musical concepts in jazz styles; roles of instruments; study of set works.
Course learning outcomes
- Facilitate understanding of the social, economic and political factors involved in the development of jazz in the USA from its West African and European roots to the present day, including the ongoing developments of jazz styles within America, Europe and Australia.
- Develop the ability to analyse and discuss/document the specific stylistic features of each historical period of jazz, including transitional and related forms, and to identify major trends in the development of the music.
- Develop the ability to assess, aurally recognise and place into historical perspective the innovations and developments of the major contributors from early jazz to contemporary styles.