Global Arc

What makes a beautiful voice? How does spoken and sung language relate across cultural spaces? How are musical and bodily gestures codified differently across music theatrical traditions? This course takes a deep dive into these questions through a comparative exploration of two global manifestations of opera: Italian opera and Sinitic (Chinese-language) xiqu. We will consider such topics as gender and sexuality; nationalism and identity; scenic design, gesture and choreography; transmission and global circulation. Students will have the opportunity to attend at least one performance at the Metropolitan Opera or other venues in the area.

This course explores the complex and diverse contexts and contributions of women (and/or women-identifying people) in music, focusing on musical traditions from Europe and North America. Chronologically spanning the twelfth century (think Benedictine nuns and courtesans) to today (i.e. Beyoncé, Dolly Parton), and including a variety of genres such as classical, jazz, country, and hip-hop, this course approaches women music makers through thematic subjects and case studies.

The senior thesis (498-499) is a year-long project in which students complete a substantial piece of research and scholarship under the supervision and advisement of a Princeton faculty member. While a year-long thesis is due in the student's final semester of study, the work requires sustained investment and attention throughout the academic year.

The senior thesis (498-499) is a year-long project in which students complete a substantial piece of research and scholarship under the supervision and advisement of a Princeton faculty member. While a year-long thesis is due in the student's final semester of study, the work requires sustained investment and attention throughout the academic year.

The string quartet has served as a significant means of expression for composers since the mid-eighteenth century. This course explores the forces contributing to the string quartet's preeminence in the world of chamber music. After exploring the development of the string quartet up until Beethoven's late quartets, the course will chart a trajectory through select works from the twentieth century up until the present. We will explore how the repertory transformed and how unique artistic voices harnessed innovative sounds and cultural forces to continue a vibrant format of chamber music.

We will explore the rich and diverse rhythms, music, and dance traditions of the African Diaspora in Latin America and the Caribbean. Reading materials, videos, and audio samples will be used to introduce aspects of people's lives, music, dance, rhythms, drums, and religious practices in these regions, and to provide a true knowledge and authentic cultural experience. Each topic will be followed by an in-class Practicum, where students demonstrate their understanding through the discussion and presentation of original work. This course is open to musicians of all backgrounds and genres.

MUS 415 explores the design and creation of audio-based artmaking practices. Classes will combine hands-on practical learning with creative presentations from faculty, students, and guest artists. Projects include designing synthesizers, microphones, speakers, pickups, analog effects, and self-led designs. Using the resources of StudioLab, we will develop skills in electronics, physical computing, and the use of tools such as laser cutters, 3D printers, breadboards, and soldering. Additional topics will be led by student interest and expertise. This class will be valuable for any students who use sound in their research or artistic practice.

This class will explore how to create live electronic music as a group. Participation in the Princeton Laptop Orchestra will be part of the course, and students will also study readings and performance documentation of live electronic music. This particular instance of the class will focus on electronic music and the body, looking at how dance can interact with music, as well as techniques like somatic sensing and gesture-to-sound mapping. Students will create their own pieces for the class to play for a final performance.

This intensive workshop explores performance as a site for an evolving, transdisciplinarity that is in mindful relationship with artistic movements, cultural continua, contemporary resonances, and individual agency. Rather than fetishize the urgent development of a legible, "authentic", or (impossibly) unique artistic identity, we will instead strive toward a practice of radical honesty, fluid curiosity, fierce courage, intentional consumption, and rigorous reflection. To that end, students will regularly create, perform, and document original solo & group work that syncretizes multiple disciplines.

Coinciding with the International Bach Festival in June, this intensive one-month course provides the opportunity for students to study German and music in Leipzig, a city renowned for its rich musical culture. Language study in the morning at the InterDaF German Language Institute, supervised by Jamie Rankin, will be supplemented with afternoon classes in music and culture with Wendy Heller; coaching in vocal and instrumental chamber music with Ruth Ochs, culminating in a final performance on June 25; Bach Festival concerts; museum visits (Bach Archive, Mendelssohn-Haus, Schumann-Haus); possible travel to nearby cities (Berlin, Dresden).