Selected Topics in Music Literature for Non-Majors (175-0-1)

Topic

Amer Musical Theatre

Instructors

Tim Lambert

Meeting Info

RCMA 1-180: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

The American Musical: Stage, Story, and Song
This course will examine the history and development of the Broadway musical, tracing its origins in late nineteenth-century operetta through to the blockbuster productions of today. By participating in this course, students will explore the evolution of the musical as both an artistic and cultural form, learn to listen to and analyze songs and scenes, and develop a language to discuss how music, drama, and dance intersect to tell stories on stage. Examples of topics to be covered include the influence of Gilbert and Sullivan's operettas on early Broadway, the innovations of composers such as Rodgers and Hammerstein and Stephen Sondheim, and the social and musical impact of recent works like Hamilton and Come From Away. Assessments include listening and viewing journals, attendance, class discussion, written reflections on live or recorded performances, and a final project. This course is open to all students. No prior musical or theatrical experience is required.

Class Materials (Required)

Allison McLamore, Musical Theater: An Appreciation, 2nd edition. Routledge, 2018. ISBN: 9781138678682. Estimated retail price: $136 from the publisher, but copies may be available elsewhere for $40-$50.

Class Attributes

Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area