THE HONORS PROGRAM AT ALVERNIA COLLEGE

Excellence, Interaction, Enthusiasm

Music Course Offerings

World Music
This is a survey course of the world through its music. We will explore bodies of world music by listening and comparison. Other cultural aspects will be included, such as visual arts, dance, ritual and religion, history, economics, and geography. Classes will include lecture, demonstration, discussion, study oral reports, and extensive listening to both audio and audio-visual resources. We will hear indigenous, classical, and popular music. Students will gain knowledge of the diversity of cultural groups and their music, and will begin to appreciate the variety of music, art, and people throughout the world.

Multicultural Music
Students will be able to define terms and discuss issues related to music, culture, and multiculturalism. Students will compare and contrast world music, classify and describe musical instruments and practices and identify them by sound. Students will also examine unique and common elements among cultures, relate multicultural knowledge to current music in America and the world.

Music History
The student will be able to give the following information for each musical period: general musical characteristics; common musical instruments and performing groups; specific titles and composers; historical and cultural factors; comparison of styles; theology and notation practices; definition of basic musical terms; listening recognition of representative works and genres.

Women in the Arts
A cultural-based survey on the contributions by women of the Western World to the field of music, visual arts, and theater. Significant attention also to women in African-based arts, includiing African-American women. Previous artistic experience is helpful. No prerequisite. This course fulfills the human diversity graduation requirement.

Experience Music
Investigate the richness and variety of music and music-makers around Reading and your home area. This interactive course combines classroom learning and WebCT with multiple off-campus music events in a variety of venues. Subject matter and scheduling are flexible. Students are responsible for transportation and occasional entrance fees.

For More Information, Contact:
Dr. Victoria Williams, Director of the Honors Program
Francis Hall 406
Office Phone (610) 796-5511
Victoria.williams@alvernia.edu

Updated: October 12, 2006

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