MUS 209A - Alternative Tunings

An examination of selected non-Western musical systems, including a study of their scales and tunings, instruments, principles of musical form, conceptions of rhythm, melody, and texture, and the social and cultural contexts in which the music is created, learned, played, and heard. The focus will be on the gamelan music of Java and Bali, but we will also touch on several other musical traditions. In considering alternative tunings, we may also look at microtonal or justly-tuned music by such American composers as Charles Ives, Harry Partch, Ben Johnston, and Lou Harrison. There will be excursions to attend rehearsals or concerts of gamelan ensembles in Boston or Lewiston. Course Typically Offered: Every other year

Prerequisite(s): None.

Credits: 4