Radio/Television/Film Genre (322-0-22)

Topic

Music Documentaries

Instructors

Danielle Beverly

Meeting Info

Helmerich Auditorium: Mon, Tues 3:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Music documentaries are some of the most popular films at the box office and on streamers. Entertaining and vibrant, they have audiences dancing in their seats. But these nonfiction cinematic texts also can offer a much deeper examination of world history, cultural and racial identity, political struggle and injustice. In this theory course, students will view music documentaries from the 20th and 21st centuries and from around the world, in order to critically explore how music can unite populations, demonstrate commonality, and spur change. In addition to weekly in-class film screenings, students will read scholarly texts to further inform their understanding, and submit written assignments. The final project will be either a research paper or a digital project that spurs from student original inquiry. Note: This is not a production course.

Learning Objectives

The learning outcomes will include an increased understanding of musical movements and world history. Students will gain a deeper appreciation for BIPOC, queer, women's, and Global South voices in front of the music documentary camera, and behind it. Students will also leave the course with a bolstered confidence about their research, analytic and writing mastery.

Teaching Method

Lecture

Evaluation Method

Attendance
Class participation
Paper, final
Project, final
Research project
Writing assignments

Class Materials (Required)

All course materials are provided.
Film screenings are scheduled for Tuesday in class. Films will not be available on course reserve. Juniors and above.

Class Attributes

Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area
No Freshmen