Music and America

In this semester-long course, we’ll investigate the history of music in America, beginning with the pre-colonial music of Native Americans and ending with the present day. Throughout this country’s history, the arts, including music, have been shaped by the social and political events of their time. Artistic forces have in turn influenced the course of culture and politics. Together, we’ll dive into these interconnected histories, learning how music has intersected with themes of identity, oppression, subversion, protest, and unity in America.

The first segment of this course will focus on American music history from colonial times up until the 20th century, exploring the role of music in historical events such as the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. The expression (and repression) of racial and national identity through music during these periods will be an organizing theme. In the second segment, we will move through the first half of the 20th century, discussing then-emerging genres such as blues, jazz, and rock. We will learn how these genres challenged social norms of the time, eventually giving rise to youth culture. Finally, the third segment will bring us from the 1960s to the present day, focusing on how music became a form and vehicle of protest against injustice amid its increasing commodification in American and international markets.

Prerequisite: None

Instructor: Jemmie Piersol-Freedman

DETAILS:

Suggested age range: 13+

Outside work: Students will be asked to complete weekly discussion assignments responding to readings, short videos, and/or films. Readings will average 10-40 pages, and films will average 1.5-2 hours. Short quizzes will be implemented throughout the course to evaluate student understanding. Throughout the course, students will submit benchmark assignments as they work towards a final research project on a relevant topic of their choice, which they will present to the class during the last live meeting.

When & where: Mondays on Zoom from 3:30-4:30 Eastern Time, Feb. 15 - June 28, 2027. No class Mar. 29 or May 31.

Fee: $450; this includes a non-refundable registration fee of $10. We offer discounts for groups, siblings, and students who enroll in multiple classes. (Discount information.) Payment plans available. Fees waived for families with financial need.  (Waivers and payment plan information.) Questions about how classes work? Read our course FAQ.