Studying popular music is a great way to learn about American culture in the 20th and 21st centuries. The Popular Music Studies minor is 16 credits, with a mix of coursework in music history/culture and musicianship/performance. The student takes three required core history/culture courses for the minor: MU-310 Rock & Roll History, Jazz History, and Hip Hop Music in American Culture.
The musicianship/performance side of the coursework includes MU-276 Music Technology, MU-102 Music Fundamentals, applied lessons, ensembles, and guitar and/or piano classes.
Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this program, each student will be able to: 1. Effectively explore diverse popular music styles within the context of American history, culture, and social and racial inequities. 2. Make historical and stylistic relationships between music of different periods, genres, and cultures. 3. Communicate effectively about musical styles, composers, and performers.
