Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the rich musical traditions of East Asia, with a focus on traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese music. Students will encounter a wide range of genres that illuminate the cultural and aesthetic values of each region and they will also learn about the distinctive East Asian instruments that bring these traditions to life. This course opens to all students and prior musical training is not required. In China, we will explore the literati repertoire of the guqin, the theatrical world of jingju (Peking Opera), and the intimate ensemble textures of jiangnan sizhu (“silk and bamboo” music). From Japan, we will study the elegance of gagaku court music, the ritualized sounds of Noh theater, the vibrant musical life of kabuki with its shamisen accompaniment, and the meditative solo tradition of the shakuhachi bamboo flute. Korean examples include the aristocratic refinement of jeongak court repertories, the epic vocal storytelling of p’ansori, the virtuosic instrumental genre of sanjo, and the energetic percussion ensemble style of samulnori. Finally, we will consider contemporary scenes, exploring how elements of traditional East Asian music continue to resonate in global popular culture, including K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop. Alongside close listening and discussion, the course emphasizes how these traditions connect to broader historical and cultural contexts.

Course Reviews

Reviews coming soon.