Introduction to Music & Music Theory

Objectives

Student will understand the general features of music theoretical study and its utility in musical practice and analysis.
Student will be introduced to musical practice as a philosophical and cultural practice encompassing sound, emotion, and behavior.
Student will identify the basic components of musical sound: pitch (melody vs. harmony), texture, rhythm/meter (duration), timbre.
Student will be able to critically assess the differences between sound, silence, music, language, and noise.

Discussion of music theory, ear training, and context within students' educations.
Comparison of music theory versus musicology and ethnomusicology.
Student-led discussion regarding musical features ("What is music? What features does music have?").
Listening list exercise: Listen to various musical examples. Ask students what they find interesting about the sound, what features stand out, is it music?