Florence Music Walks

This course will examine music through a multidimensional lens, tying musical compositions to the numerous dynamics of the city and its development over time. The course comprises a rich analysis of the interlinking epochs of music history, namely Greek and Roman theatrical music, court music, Classicism, Romanticism, Italian opera, popular music, jazz, rock, and rap. Students will engage in extensive listening exercises and will develop an understanding of music as a polyhedral art, instrument, and substantial human endeavor. Ultimately, students will be able to recognize the dialogue between music and history, as well as key protagonists in the evolution of musical performance and composition with references to structure, rhythm, instruments, narratives, and intent. The approach of this course is based on experiencing the city of Florence as an academic space for learning and engagement. Classes are not held in a traditional, frontal-style setting; each lesson is carefully mapped for curricular content and featured locations: lectures, observations, exercises, analysis, and reflections on presented topics are held in relevant sites that are accounted for in the academic planning, syllabus, and related course material. Coursework and submissions will be regularly assessed on the MyFUA platform through daily assignments in addition to exams, papers, and projects. Learning through the on-site classroom approach fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural environment of Florence and how it is related to the course topic, and allows for an overall experience which contributes to students' academic and personal enrichment.