MUSI 344 - Musical Modernism

This course delves into the evolution of musical modernism, focusing on how contemporary
composers globally, after the 20th century, explore and manipulate musical parameters. We will
examine how these sound-explorers push the boundaries of musical elements in composition,
analyzing cases that employ innovative techniques to reshape our understanding of these
elements. Students will engage in independent research, investigating various acoustic and
electronic idioms, while embracing a wide array of musical practices, instruments, concepts,
compositional philosophies, and cultural traditions. The course aims to foster a deep appreciation
of modern musical innovations and includes practices and examination of score study. By
studying case by case and musical elements by elements, students are encouraged to contribute
their own interpretations and creative explorations, examining the musical frameworks of
Western contemporary music composed by composers whose roots are in both Western and
Eastern traditions. Prerequisite(s): MUSI 113 Spring semester. (4 Credits)