Course Philosophy, Fine Arts – Musical
Philosophy
Fine Arts - Musical provides students with a general, historical and stylistic survey of
western European classical music, and may also include American folk music, jazz, world music
and popular music. Students will begin by studying the structural elements of music (rhythm,
melody, harmony, form, timbre, texture, dynamics) and will learn to apply this understanding to
their active listening to musical examples. They will also be taught ways to describe the music
they listen to, using basic musical terminology. Students may be assigned individual class
presentations of musical examples, concert or live performance critiques and research
projects. Additionally, performance media will be studied (voices, instruments and ensembles.)
Course Expectations
 students will attend regularly and be on time
 students will study the material and engage in class discussion
 students will ask questions when
 students will notify instructor of unusual circumstances regarding attendance or course
work
Course Objectives
 Through listening and writing, identify and analyze styles of music including traditional,
classical and popular styles.
 Through listening and writing, identify the elements and forms of music.
 Through listening and writing, identify selected musical masterpieces and name the
composer.
 Identify and discuss musical terminology.
 Identify various genres, periods and major composers.
 Analyze the role of music and musicians within historical contexts.
 Attend two live performances and write a report of the experience using terminology
appropriate to the course.
 Both aurally and visually differentiate various musical instruments.
Assignments and Exams/Assessment
Students are given regular tests every two chapters, with the following assignments:
occasional written assignments, a ten-minute presentation, two concert critiques and a small
term-paper.
Generally the grading system is as follows: 50% tests, 40% written work, 10%
attendance.
Contact Information
Division Chair: Dr. Dennis Humphrey, Owen Center, Rm. 135A, (501)-882-4406
djhumphrey@asub.edu
Lead Instructor: Dr. Timothy Bartlett, Howell Center, Rm. 103, (501)-882-4435
tlbartlett@asub.edu