Overview
A study of radical musical works encompassing various musical styles and cultural understanding.
This paper critically explores musical works considered radical in their time, with a focus on their impact and cultural significance. The paper consists of a series of short modules, focusing on works from a range of cultures and time periods.
Examples of music and ideas discussed in previous versions of the paper include: the use of taonga pūoro (traditional Māori musical instruments) in contemporary New Zealand compositions, music in medieval France, and contemporary Hip Hop and avant garde electronic music.
The paper culminates with a group presentations, providing an opportunity for in-depth exploration, discussion and teamwork.
About this paper
| Paper title | Radical Works |
|---|---|
| Subject | Music |
| EFTS | 0.1500 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2026 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,318.20 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- 36 100-level points
- Restriction
- MUSI 307 or 407
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music
- Eligibility
No specialist prior music knowledge is required.
- Contact
Contact the School office at spa@otago.ac.nz
- More information link
View more information at the School of Performing Arts website, or email the office at spa@otago.ac.nz
- Teaching staff
Paper Coordinator: Dr Michael Holland
Lecturers:
- Teaching Arrangements
Two 50-minute lectures per week.
- Textbooks
Textbooks are not required for this paper.
- Course outline
Email the School office at spa@otago.ac.nz for a copy of the most recent course outline.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Lifelong learning, Communication, Critical thinking, Research.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the paper will:
- Develop a well-defined appreciation of music broadly by understanding music in its cultural context.
- Develop an ability to study, interpret and comprehend music scholarship through a critical disciplinary perspective.
- Acquire very good knowledge and analytical skills when studying music and be able to write about this field effectively.
- Gain an appreciation of scholarship on music, including methods, theories and procedures relating to a critical musicological framework.
- Display competency in working with others in classes.
- Evaluate and select texts relevant to the study of music within the field of cultural musicology.
- Assessment details
5 short essays (75%)
Oral presentation (25%)