2115 Frequently Asked Questions

Music 2115: Survey of Music from Antiquity to c. 1750

Frequently Asked Questions about Music 2115 & 2116

Do they fulfill University Core Curriculum "General Education" requirements? Yes, in either Area 2 or Area 6 (but not both at the same time).
Do they have to be taken in order? No. You can start with either one, and there are advantages both ways. And you don't have to take them both; you can take one or the other unless you are a Music Minor. These courses are required for music minors, and are music electives for music majors.
How hard are they; or, what if I don't have much musical backgrtound? These are history courses, the subject of which is music. Like any history course, there are lots of terms and names and dates to learn, and in this case a lot of music to listen to, and many of the terms and names are in other languages. The two courses together cover the history of European & American art music from pre-Roman times up through 1998, and do it over a period of two semesters. Some music background or experience is a definite advantage, but students without that background have done well in the course by putting in the time and effort and learning the material. If you have absolutely no musical background, the amount of material may be too much, and you may want to consider another Core Curriculum course for Area 2 or Area 6.
Do I have to be able to read music? No, although it could be an advantage. The musical scores recommended for the course contain lots more information than just the musical notation itself. (Those scores are required for Music Minors, and Minors are expected to listen to the examples while following the scores.)
Can I audit or take these courses pass/fail? Yes, but if you do they will not satisfy the Core Curriculum requirements or the requirements for the Music Minor.
How have other students done in these courses? Grades are not curved, and it is theoretically possible for the entire class to earn A. (Although that hasn't happened yet!) You will get out of it what you are willing to put into it. It is possible to flunk, but you'd really have to work at it. If you are willing to work and do not skip any assignments or Quizzes, it is quite possible to make an A or B.
What other music courses should I consider that fulfill the Area 2 or Area 6 requirements? (1) Music Appreciation (Music 1104, offered fall, spring, & summer), which covers the same time period in one semester but concentrates on more recent music that you will hear when you go to concerts. (2) Music In America (Music 3115 & 3116), which concentrates on American Art Music fall semester and American Jazz spring semester.