European Music History & Appreciation

NOTE: All courses with the “additional art fee” note should have the following blurb in the COURSE DESCRIPTION: Please note that there are additional art fees associated with this course. Please reach out to the Prague Program Manager for more information about these fees.  

Course Description

This course will introduce students to the world of music through listening and analysis, discussions, history context and watching live performances. After a brief introduction of basic music elements, forms and instruments, it will provide an overview of major historical periods in Europe (Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and the 20th Century), and their main composers and compositions. In-class listening and virtual performances visits (unless real performances can be visited again) will improve students’ critical thinking as well as understanding and appreciation of music.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

• Become familiar with music and society of main historical periods; }
• Understand the role and purpose of music in each period and recognize its major composers and compositions;
• Learn concert etiquette and basic music terminology;
• Frequent in-class listening will increase their music comprehension and appreciation.