98788 - Fundamentals of Music Anthropology (1)

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, the student will be able to: - understand and outline methods and perspectives presented in the Anthropology of music which draw on both disciplinary and interdisciplinary scholarship; - identify the strengths and specific features of the study of music in anthropological perspective; - demonstrate an understanding of the field methods involved in the Anthropology of music; - explore the different approaches to music culture analysis based upon specific ethnographies.

Course contents

This course offers an introduction to the study of music as a cultural and social phenomenon. Topics include: key concepts and methods in the anthropology of music, such as the ethnographic approach, cultural relativism, and symbolic analysis; music and society; music and identity; music, religion and ritual practices; the cultural meanings of music; learning processes and transmission.

**

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is suggested that they get in touch as soon as possible with the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en) and with the lecturer in order to seek together the most effective strategies for following the lessons and/or preparing for the examination.

Readings/Bibliography

Alan P. Merriam, Antropologia della musica, prefazione di Diego Carpitella, Palermo, Sellerio, 2000 [or another edition of your choice], excluding chapters V (pp. 100-114), XII (pp. 230-257), and XIV (pp. 275-298), to be replaced with the texts provided in Dispensa (Virtuale).

Teaching methods

In-person lectures with class discussions on key topics.

Assessment methods

The exam consists of an oral interview aimed at assessing the student's knowledge and critical thinking skills. The syllabus is the same for both attending and non-attending students.

Excellent marks: will be awarded to students demonstrating thorough and in-depth understanding of the topics, fluent use of specific and appropriate language, originality of thought, and proficiency in applying analytical tools from the anthropology of music.

Good to fair marks: will be given to those showing generally adequate but mostly mechanical or memorised knowledge, partial analytical and synthetic abilities, correct but occasionally imprecise language, and a basic level of disciplinary competence.

Pass-level marks: will be assigned to students with knowledge of essential content but with notable gaps, imprecise expression, and a limited grasp of theoretical and methodological tools.

Failing grades: will be given to students who demonstrate serious learning gaps, use inappropriate language, and are unable to analyse or contextualise topics within the discipline.

**

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is necessary to contact the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en) with ample time in advance: the office will propose some adjustments, which must in any case be submitted 15 days in advance to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of these in relation to the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Video and audio recordings will be used to complement the readings discussed in class. No additional readings are required for non-attending students.

Office hours

See the website of Silvia Bruni