This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module provides a scholarly perspective on the development of twentieth-century and recent musical genres. Different musical styles will be compared and analysed, and their wider contexts will be considered. The cultural, social and commercial development of genres will also be examined.
Contact hours: 22
Independent study hours: 128
Total study hours: 150
Main assessment methods
1) Analysis of musical examples (1000 words plus diagrams) 40%
2) Essay (1800 words) 60%
Reassessment methods
1) Analytical Essay (2800 words plus musical examples and diagrams) 100%
Indicative Reading List
Holt, F. (2007) Genre in Popular Music. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
Lena, J. C. (2014) Banding Together: How Communities Create Genres in Popular Music. Princeton: Princeton University Press.
Meier, L. (2016) Popular Music as Promotion: Music and Branding in the Digital Age. Cambridge: Polity Press
Shuker, R. (2017) Popular Music: The Key Concepts. London: Routledge.
Wall, T. (2013) Studying Popular Music Culture. London: Sage.
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1) demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of well-established twentieth century and contemporary music genres;
2) use a range of techniques to undertake critical analysis of key genres and their associated musical outputs;
3) demonstrate a critical awareness of the cultural, social and commercial aspects of music genre studies;
4) understand the systems by which genres develop, grow and gain prominence within local, national and global communities.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1) use data effectively by utilising appropriate forms of analysis to interpret and present relevant information;
2) utilise appropriate technology for information gathering and research;
3) display an openness to alternative ideas and ways of thinking and to demonstrate flexibility of thought.
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