This course provides the student with a foundation of musical knowledge through investigation of traditional Western music, World Music and early Popular American Music. This is the first section of a three-part, year long course.

No prior musical ability is required. Admission by discretion of instructor.

A computer with a microphone and speakers or a headphone jack
Software which allows you to record yourself such as GarageBand or Audacity

Musical instruments of any kind
Listen, 4th Brief Edition by Joseph Kerman
Accompanying 6-CD set (Bedford/St. Martin's Press, 2000)

By the end of this course the student will:
1. know musical terminology such as melody, rhythm, harmony, and form
2. describe musical characteristics of historical styles in Western classical music, popular music, and world music styles
3. understand the connections between musical styles and culural contexts

Lecture will be presented in video format.
Homework will be in response to assigned readings.
Class discussions via weekly chat and discussion board provide interactive learning and peer evaluation.

Writing Assignments
Projects incorporating various media
Chat room and message board participation

Attendance will effect your grade

Beginning thirty days prior to start of class, tuition is nonrefundable

Assignments are due on Sunday of each week. Your final grade will be based on the following:

75% Weekly assignments complete and on time. Submit all assignments on or before the stated due dates. Assignments submitted after the due date may be graded but are subject to the following penalties:

• Assignments that are submitted in the 1st week after the original due date will receive a reduction of one letter grade.
• Assignments that are submitted in the 2nd and 3rd week after the original due date will receive a grade reduction of two letter grades.
• Assignments that are submitted in the 4th week after the original due date will receive a grade reduction of three letter grades.
• Assignments that are submitted 5 or more weeks late will not be accepted.

25% Class Participation via discussion threads and chats

Adherence to the above will earn the student a B grade. Students wishing for a higher grade can achieve this by:
• outstanding insight in their responses
• participation in more than four chats
• starting and contributing to discussion threads beyond those generated from assignments

Students will receive lower than a B grade by:
• failure to submit assignment responses and/or late submission of assignments
• failure to attend at least four online chats

Inappropriate language or behavior will not be tolerated.
Instructor reserves the right to drop any student from the class who challenges the policy.