About this Course

Time: Online at your own pace each week,
with a weekly Live Online Chat (Recorded for those not able to attend)
Place: Wherever you are!
Instructor: Dr. Melanie Ohm
E-mail: melanie.ohm@cgc.edu
Office Hours: By appointment, phone or video chat

This course examines the history of the music of North America from early Native American music to the present. It provides an introduction to the musical trends, composers, socioeconomic developments, historical events, musical forms and styles that influence our modern American musical sense. It’s a study of the way human stories over a period of time (including OUR stories) are communicated through and influenced by music – and how the events of history changed human expression through music and other cultural forms. We will listen to music, think critically, dialogue, and reflect on events and influences from America's early history into the 21st century, considering what connects the past to our lives today.

This fall semester course is 16 weeks, plus finals week. Although we are not tied down to specific times of day, we will adhere to a weekly schedule that includes readings, discussions, assignments, and regular projects. This course is divided into 16 topical modules, for example, "Traditional Musics" and "Rock and Roll." A module will start on Monday and end on Sunday with your assignments being due on Sunday night at 11:59 pm. Each week typically includes:

• materials for you to read, watch, and explore through the text, a slideshow, and a topic exploration assignment

• an activity, such as a discussion, where you interact with your classmates and instructor

• a weekly Live Online Chat Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. (optional, recorded and posted) in which I will discuss selected concepts and respond to your questions

• a graded assignment to allow you to work with the concepts and resources

Required Text (eBook with CONNECT) and Tools

• eBook: America's Music, Author: Ferris, Publisher: McGraw-Hill CONNECT, Year Published: 2019, ISBN 9781260964998 eBook CONNECT Support: 800.331.5094 - Required

• Computer with internet access to Canvas and Google tools. The eBook may be accessed from any device.

I am here for you. I will do my best to make the learning meaningful. My virtual door is open! Prof Melanie