3 Musical Selections. (25% of the total grade)
I want to know the title of the piece, who did it, and when. I would also like to know some significant information about it, no more than 2 sentences. Don't put your reactions to the piece a la the weekly homeworks- I've already seen those. Instead, try to show off some knowledge about the piece and its relevance to the class. If you can't remember parts of the three main factoids (title, composer, date), this last bit is a good chance for you to make up some points. I award partial credit, and dates that are within +- 5 years are acceptable.3 Short Answers. (75% of the total grade)
You will select from a larger pool of possible questions, and write no more than two paragraphs for each question. Include all the facts you can gainfully employ to make your point. I am most interested in your ability to think critically. Referencing readings or conversations we had in class will help you win my favor. Write as little or as much as you think you need to prove yourself worthy.Not all questions are the same level of difficulty. Undertaking an easier question will result in fewer opportunities for partial credit. Attempting a more challenging question will win you greater tolerance for minor errors. Take risks: I give points for audacity.
Two example short answer questions (neither of which will be on the midterm) are as follows:
"What are some of the effects of widespread mechanical reproduction on art? Support your argument with examples."
Or...
"Both Iannis Xenakis and Luigi Russolo found violence to be beautiful somehow. Compare and contrast their perspectives on this, citing their musical choices and commentary as evidence."
Please email me if you have questions. An example question of yours could be "is XXXXX an appropriate answer to that question?".
In addition to partial credit, I reserve the right, but not the obligation, to offer extra credit. That will be determined the day of the exam.
And now, a short pep talk from my man Leslie Nielsen.
nice
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