Many of us spend our life listening to music, whether aware or unaware. Music surrounds us, fills the airwaves and influences us in so many ways. What is the definition of music? After all, what is “music” to one's ears may not be music to another's. Where does music come from? Why does music sound the way it does? How is the music of today linked to the past? Why should pop musicians be grateful to Bach?

This class provides an overall understanding of music, an overall appreciation for its past, present and potential future. Music has always had an impact on its listeners and has been used to promote the ideals of different civilizations. Like architecture, literature and art, music has evolved over the centuries…a living mirror and history of man's evolution and philosophy which has the power to reveal to our “modern” ears the sounds of the past: mysticism, reverence, love, passion, joy, sorrow and celebration.

Come and share this common musical thread and discover how much we have in common with those of long ago. It is in understanding this past that we can put into perspective our musical present.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: This is a zero-cost course. Do I need to buy anything from the NRCC Bookstore?
  A: Not at all! All the course material is free-of-charge within Canvas!
• Q: What are the advantages of taking this zero-cost class?
  A: This course engages each student in the learning process. This is an “active-learning” course with numerous opportunities for enrichment.
• Q: Will MUS 121 Music in Society apply to my degree?
  A: Yes. If you need humanities credits, MUS 121 fulfills 3 credits.
• Q: Is this course transferable?
  A: This course is highly transferable and meets the general education requirement at many universities. Music courses and the transferability chart (TVA Transfer Table) are available in the Transfer Virginia folder.
• Q: What is the purpose of this course?
  A: Understand and recognize the role of art music within the context of society throughout Western history. Enhance knowledge of significant musicians and musical works. Identify various components within a composition or performance that influence the overall listening experience.
• Q: What other benefits are there to taking this course?
  A: Many students share what they learn in this class with family and friends, opening further doors for music discovery and dialogue!
• Q: What are the grades based on?
  A: Listening journals (30%), exams (25%), student-generated playlists (15%), discussion forums (15%) and assignments (15%) that allow students to further explore the world of music.