Module Specifications: School of Music
Module Title:
Contextual Studies in Popular Music
Module Code:
BAPM05C
Level:
4
Credits:
15
Pre-requisites:
Module Description:
The purpose of this module is to provide an historical, social, political and cultural
context for the study of contemporary popular music. It provides the basis for the
identification and consideration of selected styles in 20th and 21st century popular
music and for the subsequent study of particular genres. Participation in this
module will enable the student to engage in informed debate about current issues in
contemporary music.
Indicative Content:
• Research: Finding and using appropriate sources of information (e.g. libraries,
internet), referencing.
• Context: Historical, social, political and cultural influences.
• Aesthetics: Musical analysis (e.g. form, instrumentation), performance styles,
production practices, audience profiles, gender, fashion.
• Written work
•
Presentation: Planning, preparation and delivery
Learning and Teaching Methods:
This module will be taught through a combination of lectures and tutorials.
Specific Learning Resources:
Teaching space with audio visual facilities
Bibliography
Highly Recommended
Iddon, M., Marshall, M. (eds) (2014) Lady Gaga and Popular Music: Performing
Gender, Fashion and Culture. London: Routledge
Stratton, J. (2009) Jews, Race and Popular Music. UK: Ashgate
Shuker, R. (2012) Understanding Popular Music 4th Ed.. London: Routledge
Wall, T. (2013) Studying Popular Music Culture, 2nd Ed. London: Arnold
Cullen, J. (2013) Popular Culture in American History, 2nd Ed. USA: Wiley-
Blackwell
Bennett, A. (2001) Cultures of Popular Music (Issues in cultural & Media Studies)
UK: OUP
