Two perspectives are developed: 1) diverse music of groups in America, and 2) American music as a unique phenomenon. Groups considered are African, Asian, European, Hispanic/Latino, and Native American. Lectures and musical examples are organized by topics such as music of socio-economic subgroups within large groups, survival of culture, pan-ethnicity, religious and concert music, and the folk-popular music continuum.

HYBRID FORMAT FOR FALL 2026
Lectures are online accessible through bCourses.
Discussion sections are **in-person** and students should enroll in a discussion section they plan to attend in real time without a time conflict override.


This course offers an introductory exploration of diverse musical cultures in the United States, examining how various ethnic groups have brought musical traditions with them and created new hybrid forms through ongoing processes of intercultural dialogue and exchange. Rather than providing an exhaustive survey of every musical culture in America, we will focus on several key voices, moments, and genres
within this broader history.

Throughout the semester, you will develop essential listening skills and learn fundamental musical concepts and terminology that will enhance your understanding of music both in this course and beyond. We will investigate the diverse ways people use music to express individual and collective identities, explore how communities incorporate musical practices into their lives, and examine music within broader
historical, political, and economic contexts. Central to our discussions will be questions of identity and identification as established through music,
particularly within the specific history of cultural contact and exchange that has shaped American musical landscapes. Our coverage will necessarily be selective and introductory in scope. Please note that this is not a history of American music but rather an examination of some key moments and elements in that history.

Credit Restrictions

Students will receive no credit for MUSIC 26AC after completing MUSIC S26X, or MUSIC W26AC.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills