dec 02 | Week 15

Overview

We depart the Old World for a date with early 20th century American music. The United States came into its own musically during the 20th century, catapulting to international fame with the advent of audio recording and broadcast technology.

By week's end, you'll be able to discuss and identify influential works from Blues, Jazz and 20th century art music composers.

Blues and Jazz

American Blues and Jazz emerged as pivotal styles during the first decades of the 20th century, laying the foundation for dozens of popular styles and cementing American's place in music history.

3. Dawn of Blues and Jazz (USA)

Charles Ives

Avant-garde composer Charles Ives evoked Americana with marching bands, hymns, and folk songs stirred together in a potent cacophony of dissonance and nostalgia:

4. Early 20th Century America: Charles Ives

George Gershwin

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George Gershwin drew his ideas from popular American music, integrating elements of blues, jazz and ragtime into his music. He was a superstar by his late 20s but died tragically young.

5. Early 20th Century America: George Gershwin

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Course Evaluation

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Learn to Play Guitar

This Spring 2025 learn to play guitar in MUS 121D, Guitar 1, live and hands-on in the classroom. No Zoom! We start with the basics of technique, notation and music playing. You'll be strumming, picking melodies, soloing and jamming with other musicians in no time!