A perspective from philosophy of art that briefly sets out some of the issues and debates. Chapter 7 provides a good overview and you can download a more detailed discussion (also by Thompson) here. And here is a discussion on the topic from the perspective of music analysis.
In addition to background reading on the topic form the textbook each student will also investigate a particular theory or approach to this topic:
Deryck Cooke The Language of Music. More recent investigations of these ideas: here and here
Kivy, P. (2006). Mood and Music: Some Reflections for Noël Carroll. Journal of Aesthetics and Art Criticism, 64(2), 271-281 (available online through the library)
Susanne Langer Philosophy in a New Key. A useful summary and discussion of her work. Related ideas in E.T. Cone's Music: a View from Delft. Selected Essays
Hevner, K. (1936). Experimental studies of the elements of expression in music. The American Journal of Psychology, 48(2), 246-268.
Emotion and expectations Meyer Emotion and Meaning in Music to Huron Sweet Anticipation
Here are some questions to start the debate
music and basic emotions - is music primarily about sad/happy/angry? does listening to happy music make us happy? or why do we listen to sad music?
Intra and extra musical aspects of music and emotions
The relationship between musical expertise (of performers; of listeners) and emotions
For the final class of this term (Dec. 17th) prepare an outline for your essay. This could be a preliminary outline, covering part of the topic but you should consider both the substance and the organisation of your ideas. This should be in (mostly) bullet points, e.g.
Introduction
something
Something else
And another thing
Topic 1
First point
support for 1st point
more evidence in support
leads on to point 2
Second point
etc.
Topic 2
and so on
and so forth
Though the target audience seem to be primarily American high-schools here are some good ideas about writing an essay and about an outline.
Additional sources about good writing here.