Decolonising Pop: K-Pop and Beyond

This course introduces selected popular music cultures of the world, examining case studies from Asia, Africa and the Middle East, as well as diasporic and globalised styles. Each lecture will introduce:

• representative musical styles with their characteristic sounds, instruments and forms.
• the cultural contexts within which they have developed.
• relationships between music and global and local forces including political power structures, gender, nationalism, tourism and globalisation;
• the roles of musicians and those working in music industries;
• circumstances surrounding musical performance, recording and dissemination of music.

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

At this end of this course a student should be able to demonstrate:

• the ability to assimilate relevant scholarly literature and relate its insights to the experience of music;
• the ability to apply insights and discoveries in one area of study to another;
• the ability to relate music to its historical, social, cultural, political, philosophical, economic, spiritual and religious contexts;
• the ability to confront, explore and assimilate unfamiliar musical sounds, concepts, repertoires and practices.

Workload

Two hours lecture

Scope and syllabus

This course prepares students for more in-depth study of a regional popular music course in the second and/or third year.

Method of assessment

One 2,500 words essay (worth 70%); a one hour listening exam (worth 30%)

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules