Washington University in St. Louis Department of Music

The Department of Music at Washington University (WashU) has a rich and diverse curriculum that includes a variety of music history courses, two of which are "History of Jazz" and "Music History III: Classical Music in Flux, 1850 to the Present." These courses reflect the department's commitment to providing comprehensive music education that spans different genres and historical periods. "History of Jazz" (MUSIC 105) is a course that explores the development of jazz music from its inception to the present day, with a focus on its African roots and cultural significance. The course is designed to give students a deep understanding of one of America's original art forms and its enduring impact on the musical landscape. This course is listed with attributes that associate it with the Humanities and Fine Arts, indicating its relevance to a broad liberal arts education. The instructor for "History of Jazz" is listed as Stucky, with classes held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:00 AM in room 0252 102. The course has been offered in the Spring semesters of 2022, 2023, and is scheduled for 2024 as well, showcasing its regular availability to students. "Music History III: Classical Music in Flux, 1850 to the Present" (MUSIC 3017) provides an in-depth look at the evolution of high art music since the mid-19th century. This course examines the relationship between musical trends and developments in other art forms, as well as the influence of social and political contexts on the creation and reception of music. It also addresses the pluralism of musical styles that characterize the late 20th and early 21st centuries, highlighting the complexity and diversity of classical music during this period. Prerequisites for "Music History III" include Music 122 or Music 3012, ensuring that students have a solid foundation in music theory or history before tackling the advanced material covered in this class. The course is taught by Pesce, taking place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 AM in the same room as the "History of Jazz" course. It has been part of the curriculum in the Spring semesters of 2022 and 2023. Both courses are part of the Department of Music's offerings at WashU, which also includes graduate and undergraduate programs, private lessons, and various ensembles. The department provides resources such as faculty publications and the opportunity to hire WashU musicians. Program contacts and the Friends of Music support network further enrich the community and provide additional opportunities for engagement and learning. The Department of Music at Washington University encourages students to apply their curiosity to their studies, as evidenced by the diverse range of courses and educational resources available. Through courses like "History of Jazz" and "Music History III: Classical Music in Flux, 1850 to the Present," the department demonstrates its dedication to fostering an understanding of music's role in culture and history.