Philosophy of music

Is music the most mathematical art or the most irrational? Is it a universal language, or just a pleasant tinkling in the ear? Does it express the inexpressible? Or have no meaning at all?

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Key course information

Date
09/10/11

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 15:30

Fees
Full fee: £38^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HP048

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

This course is about the relationship between music and philosophy. It focuses on how developments in music and philosophy since the 18th century have affected one another. Many philosophers have argued that music raises deep philosophical questions, and many composers have been influenced by what philosophers have had to say about it. The aim of this course is to explore the rich connections between making, listening to, and talking about musical art.

What topics will we cover?

Discussion will focus on a range of musical excerpts from the 18th century (and before) to the present day: from familiar ‘classics’ to less familiar avant-garde compositions. The central topic is the emergence of the idea of ‘absolute’ music, or music that has no ‘extra-musical’ ingredients. How has this idea – largely inspired by philosophical conceptions of what music is – been brought to life by composers since the beginning of the 19th century? How is it relevant to the music of today (including ‘pop music’, jazz, and ‘world music’)? How does it relate to the idea of music as ‘expression’? What are its philosophical roots? These questions will be discussed in relation to a number of major philosophers and critical theorists, including Rousseau, Schopenhauer, Wittgenstein, and Adorno.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Identify some central themes in the philosophy of music
- Distinguish between different conceptions of what music is
- Discuss your own views about music from a more philosophical point of view.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Introductory. No knowledge of philosophy or ‘classical’ music assumed. However a critical mind as well as an ability to read and comment upon philosophical extracts will enhance your enjoyment and benefit from the course.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

There will be a mix of lecture-style presentations and structured discussion activities. Although the excerpts we will be listening to are all of ‘high-brow’ music, students are encouraged to widen discussion to include music of other types.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

None. Handouts will be provided.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. Feedback will be given informally throughout the day.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.