MUS 241(S) Introduction to the Music of John Coltrane
This course offers the serious music student an opportunity to study the unique
body of work produced by saxophonist and composer John Coltrane
(1926-1967). The course traces the evolution of Coltrane's compositional and
performance styles in the context of the musical and cultural environment in
which they developed. Emphasis placed on Coltrane's musical style,
representing a unique synthesis of influences, including jazz, world, and
European Classical music and spirituality. Substantial reading assignments,
including a biography and related criticism, as well as detailed score analysis
and study, are required.
Format: lecture. Evaluation based on in-class participation and preparation,
quizzes on assigned readings, midterm and final examinations, participation in
an in-class group analysis presentation, and a final paper involving musical
analysis of a Coltrane composition or recorded performance.
Prerequisite(s): Music 103 and/or 212 strongly recommended. Musical literacy
sufficient to deal with the material and /or permission of the instructor.
Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19). Preference given to Music students.