Topic for Fall 2016: Popular Music 1954-1979--The Rise of Rock and Roll
Growing out of the need for the young generation to have a voice separate from the influence of their parents, Rock-and-Roll will be studied from its genesis in the mid-50s, combining influences from R&B, Country, and Pop, through the variety of sub-genres in the 60s to the punk and disco movements in the 70s that attempted to return R/R to its simpler origins and functions. Movers and shakers who shaped the growth and acceptance of R/R as a popular artistic culture as well as the multitude of social, political, and racial challenges that influenced popular music will be the basis of discussions in class.

Topic for Fall 2016: The History of Recorded Sound
Since the late nineteenth century the history of music has been inextricably tied to the history of recorded sound. In this course we will study the history of sound recording and examine the impact of recorded sound on practices of composing, performing, and listening to music. To supplement our analysis of historical recordings and tape music compositions we will read and discuss essays and articles by composers and performers, as well as material and cultural histories of recorded sound. Not open to students who have completed, or need to complete this topic under MUCO 450.

Topic for Winter 2017: The Beatles--Four Lads Who Shook the World
A survey of The Beatles' career from their formation and early development, rise to superstardom, and influence in popular music in the 1960s, to their subsequent adoration as cultural icons. Discussions will center on presentations of audio and video clips, and simple analyses of music and lyrics relating socio-cultural, political, and other extra-musical factors to popular music.

Topic for Spring 2017: The Blues
The course explores topics in the history of African American blues music, from the late 19th century to the present, including: the early recorded history of the blues, "classic" blues singers, the blues revival, boogie woogie, jump blues, and rhythm and blues. In addition to studying various blues genres, we will study blues forms and styles in the context of jazz, European modernist music, African American classical music, American musical theater and opera, and rock ’n’ roll. Not open to students who have completed, or need to complete this topic under MUCO 450.