This lecture / discussion course surveys the history of Jazz music from its roots to the present, covering a broad range of styles. Particular attention will be paid to pivotal figures. Representative audio and audio-visual recordings will be analyzed, discussed, and connected to related trends in music and the broader culture. Contexts and practices of performance and recording will also be examined. Outside class, students should expect to attend live Jazz performances (when possible), listen to recordings, read and write about the artists and their approaches. The course’s main objectives are to increase students’ appreciation, understanding, and enjoyment of Jazz music; identify key developments in Jazz history; sharpen listening skills; and develop useful approaches to analyzing, discussing, and writing about the music and its place in history and culture.

Course Requirements:

Students enrolling in the course should expect regular reading and music-listening assignments, periodic quizzes, brief in-class and online writing assignments, midterm and final examinations, and two papers.

Intended Audience:

Graduate students elect MUSICOL 517.

Class Format:

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