Ethnomusicology - M.A. Download to print

The Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology is designed to offer students a solid foundation in regional studies of music style, performance practice, history and cultural associations in order to prepare students for continued graduate studies at the doctoral level and/or public sector careers in world music. The program integrates theoretical perspectives relevant to the discipline with these practical aims, so that students can communicate effectively with persons within and outside the field of ethnomusicology. While a balanced global coverage is emphasized, our current faculty focus on studies in Central Africa, mainland Southeast Asia, East Asia, the Caribbean, North and South America and the Middle East, as well as popular music studies. Theoretical concerns include sociocultural identity, semiotics, gender studies, politics and power, ritual studies, globalization and hybridity, as well as studies in inter-related arts, e.g., dance and theatre.

Official transcript(s); 3.00 GPA; three letters of recommendation; goal statement(s); resume; and academic paper written in English.

Please refer to the university policy for graduate admission.

Minimum 32 total credit hours.
 

1. Students recognize, identify, interpret and discuss theoretical concerns and important contributions of historical figures in the field of ethnomusicology, as well as representative music styles from different historical periods, countries and ethnic populations.
2. Students demonstrate and apply fieldwork techniques including proficiency with photography, videography, and audio recording, interviewing, and participant-observation research.
3. Students demonstrate the ability to plan and execute an efficient and productive lecture presentation in an academic setting for use at professional conferences, concert performances, and classroom teaching that includes time management, clear and effective explanation, efficient use of multi-media, and successful question and answer interactions.
4. Students utilize and discuss theoretical issues related to ethnomusicology and related disciplines, such as socio-cultural identity, semiotics, gender studies, politics and power, ritual studies, globalization and hybridity.
5. Students identify, explain, and utilize performance pedagogy, as well as analyze compositional forms, appropriate to the specific vocal or instrumental areas of study.
6. Students display performance and interpretation skills in music through discussion and participation in rehearsals and through the resulting musical product in concert settings.

The Master of Arts program requires a thesis.

All students writing a thesis must pass a final oral examination covering the thesis and the student’s major area of study.The final oral examination may be attempted two times.
 

National Association of Schools of Music