Browse Hierarchy MUSC5004: Popular Music in Society

This module aims to discuss the place and definition of popular music in current and recent society. Students will be introduced to key concepts in cultural theory, including authenticity, hybridity and identity politics, race, class, gender, age, ethnicity and religion, and will examine a range of musical 'texts' against the background of these terms. The texts will range from recordings to films, and while reference may be made to score-based works in recorded format, no assumption is made about notational literacy. The module culminates in a large-scale essay, the development of skills in which forms a key element. Skills in independent study (including choosing, designing and researching a viable topic) and the presentation of an academic essay (including bibliography, footnoting etc.) are developed in this module, so paving the way for U66097 (Music Dissertation).