This course will introduce students to the discipline of ethnomusicology, with particular attention to the nature of ethnographic research and writing on music. It will examine how and why people make music across different cultural contexts, focusing on the themes of identity, tradition, and activism. Students will learn about ethnomusicological theories and methods through reading, writing, discussion, participatory performance activities, and an independent research project. In addition to case studies of musical practices from around the world, the course will examine the changing relationships between ethnomusicologists and the musicians and communities with whom they work.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:- Demonstrate understanding of the theoretical and methodological approaches of ethnomusicological research;
- Apply these approaches to pursue knowledge about different musical cultures;
- Situate particular musical sounds in particular social, historical, and cultural contexts; and
- Explain some of the factors that motivate artists to perform and/or compose in particular ways.
Research-Led Teaching
This course develops students' research skills and understanding in the area of music ethnography. Course content includes presentations and workshops based on the convenor's ethnomusicological research.
Field Trips
In week 8, the class will visit the Indonesian Embassy for a Balinese gamelan workshop. In week 9, subject to staff availability, the class may visit the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS).
Additional Course Costs
In completing their research projects for this course, students may incur additional costs relating to transport or purchase of tickets for performance events. The specifics will depend upon the details of the student’s chosen project.
Examination Material or equipment
Additional information about examination procedure is available here: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/assessments-exams/examination-conduct
Required Resources
See the course Wattle site for weekly reading assignments and resources. Additional assigned readings are available on e-reserve or on the reserve shelf in the Art and Music Library.
Recommended Resources
Turino, Thomas. 2008. Music as Social Life: The Politics of Participation. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
Rice, Timothy. 2013. Ethnomusicology: A Very Short Introduction. New York: Oxford University Press.
The books are available on reserve in the Art and Music Library. For students who wish to purchase their own copy, they are also available as an e-book or paperback through online retailers such as Amazon.
Staff Feedback
Students will be given feedback in the following forms in this course:
- Written comments ?
- Verbal comments ?
- Feedback to the whole class, to groups, and to individuals ?
Student Feedback
ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). The feedback given in these surveys is anonymous and provides the Colleges, University Education Committee and Academic Board with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement. The Surveys and Evaluation website provides more information on student surveys at ANU and reports on the feedback provided on ANU courses.
Class Schedule
Week/Session | Summary of Activities | Assessment |
---|---|---|
1 | Week 1 What is ethnomusicology? | |
2 | Week 2 What is music? | |
3 | Week 3 Ethnographic theory and method | |
4 | Week 4 Ethnomusicology, history, and tradition | Ethnographic portfolio part 1: Description of topic with bibliography of five academic sources Due Tuesday 4pm |
5 | Week 5 Negotiating tradition in Arabic music (Workshop with Oxford Maqam) | |
6 | Week 6 Music, gender, and tradition in West Africa | Ethnographic portfolio part 2: Field notes Due Tuesday 4 pm |
7 | Week 7 Forging national identity through calypso and steel band in Trinidad | Ethnographic portfolio part 3: Interview transcript Due Tuesday 4 pm |
8 | Week 8 Exploring gamelan music in Indonesia (Workshop at Indonesian Embassy) | |
9 | Week 9 Music, identity, and place in Australia (Visit to AIATSIS to be confirmed) | |
10 | Week 10 What is applied ethnomusicology? | |
11 | Week 11 Applied ethnomusicology continued: Music and health | Final written project (1500-2000 words) Due Friday 4 pm |
12 | Week 12 Final reflection and review | Ethnographic portfolio part 4: Reflection and self-evaluation Due Tuesday 4 pm Final exam during exam period |
Assessment Summary
Assessment task | Value | Due Date | Return of assessment | Learning Outcomes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Final Exam | 25 % | 06/06/2019 | 20/06/2019 | 1,2,3,4 |
Ethnography Paper | 30 % | 24/05/2019 | 07/06/2019 | 1,2,3,4 |
Presentation | 15 % | 14/04/2019 | 05/06/2019 | 1,2,3,4 |
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 1 | 5 % | 19/03/2019 | 02/04/2019 | 1,2 |
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 2 | 5 % | 23/04/2019 | 07/05/2019 | 1,2 |
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 3 | 5 % | 07/05/2019 | 21/05/2019 | 1,2,3,4 |
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 4 | 5 % | 28/05/2019 | 11/06/2019 | 1,2,3,4 |
* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details
Policies
ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines, which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Misconduct Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:
- Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
- Special Assessment Consideration Policy and General Information
- Student Surveys and Evaluations
- Deferred Examinations
- Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure
Assessment Requirements
The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website. Students may choose not to submit assessment items through Turnitin. In this instance you will be required to submit, alongside the assessment item itself, hard copies of all references included in the assessment item.
Moderation of Assessment
Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.
Participation
Active participation is essential for this course. You should prepare for class meetings by completing the assigned readings and taking thorough notes. You are expected to actively contribute to discussions, small group activities, quizzes, and other in-class activities. In addition, you are expected to listen actively to other students’ ideas, and to respond constructively and thoughtfully.
Value: 10%
Assessment criteria: (See Assessment Rubric available on the course Wattle site)
- Frequency of participation in discussions and other in-class activities
- Evidence of preparation
- Evidence of listening skills
Examination(s)
See Assessment Task 1
Assessment Task 1
Learning Outcomes: 1,2,3,4
Final Exam
The exam will be held during the examination period between 6 June-22 June 2019 (day and time to be confirmed). The exam will include multiple choice questions and essay questions.
Word limit: The total word count of the five paragraphs should be in the range of 750-1000 words (i.e. approximately 150-200 words for each paragraph)
Value: 25%
Presentation requirements: There will be two sections in the exam paper.
Section 1: 10-20 multiple choice questions
Section 2: Write five paragraphs to answer five questions, which you can choose from a list of eight questions.
Estimated return date: Two weeks later
Assessment Criteria:
- Demonstrated understanding of the topic
- Use of concepts and ideas from reading assignments, lectures, and other course material
- Ideas supported with evidence from course materials and experiences
- Articulation of argument, depth of investigation and level of criticality
Rubric
Grade | Letter Grade | Numerical Mark (%) | Standards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
High Distinction | HD | 80-100 | Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Distinction | D | 70-79 | Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Credit | C | 60-69 | Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Pass | P | 50-59 | Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Fail | N | 0-49 | Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated |
Assessment Task 2
Learning Outcomes: 1,2,3,4
Ethnography Paper
Draw on evidence from your ethnographic research, as well as relevant academic sources, to investigate the significance of your chosen music in the lives of participants (i.e. musicians, composers, dancers, audience members, etc.). You may choose to focus more on analysis of the music itself, or on the social, cultural, political, or religious meanings attached to that music. You are encouraged to meet with the instructor early in the semester to discuss your chosen topic.
Word limit: 2000 words
Value: 30%
Presentation requirements: The paper should include a title, written discussion and analysis of the chosen case study, and a bibliography of at least five academic sources.
Due date: Friday 24 May, 4 pm
Estimated return date: Within two weeks of submission
Assessment Criteria:
- Application of theories and concepts from scholarship in ethnomusicology and/or related disciplines
- Ideas supported with evidence from fieldwork and relevant scholarship
- Articulation of argument, depth of investigation and level of criticality
- Quality of academic writing and referencing
Rubric
Grade | Letter Grade | Numerical Mark (%) | Standards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
High Distinction | HD | 80-100 | Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Distinction | D | 70-79 | Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Credit | C | 60-69 | Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Pass | P | 50-59 | Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Fail | N | 0-49 | Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated |
Assessment Task 3
Learning Outcomes: 1,2,3,4
Presentation
Presentations will take place in weeks 7-12 of the semester. Students will sign up for a presentation date by Week 6. The presentation should introduce the class to your chosen ethnographic case study, drawing connections with the major themes of the course. The presentation should include:
- a brief live performance and/or an audio/video recording of the music you discuss
- a participatory component (e.g. teach the class a song, ask questions to engage your audience)
Value: 15%
Presentation requirements: The presentation should be 10 minutes, and include a live performance and/or a recording of the music you discuss, as well as a participatory component.
Estimated return date: Within two weeks of date of presentation
Assessment Criteria:
- Clarity and organisation of oral presentation
- Evidence of an individual investigation, understanding and interpretation of existing scholarly enquiry
- Quality of performance example (live or recorded)
- Quality of participatory component
Rubric
Grade | Letter Grade | Numerical Mark (%) | Standards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
High Distinction | HD | 80-100 | Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Distinction | D | 70-79 | Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Credit | C | 60-69 | Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Pass | P | 50-59 | Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Fail | N | 0-49 | Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated |
Assessment Task 4
Learning Outcomes: 1,2
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 1
Description of topic with bibliography of at least five academic sources. Describe your topic, research questions you plan to explore, and your intended methodological approach.
Word count: 300 words
Value: 5%
Due date: Tuesday, 19 March, 4 pm
Assessment criteria:
- Clarity of description of research topic
- Quality and originality of research questions
- Use of standard bibliographic formatting
- Selection of relevant academic sources
Rubric
Grade | Letter | Numerical Mark (%) | Standards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
High Distinction | HD | 80-100 | Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Distinction | D | 70-79 | Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Credit | C | 60-69 | Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Pass | P | 50-59 | Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Fail | N | 0-49 | Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated |
Assessment Task 5
Learning Outcomes: 1,2
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 2
Field notes: written description of a music event that you observed and/or participated in. See the Performance Observation Suggestions (available on the course Wattle site) for more information.
Due date: Tuesday, 2 April, 4 pm
Value: 5%
Word Count: 300 words
Estimated return date: within 2 weeks of submission
Assessment criteria:
- Evidence of participation and/or observation of musical event(s).
- Quality of descriptions of musical event(s)
- Demonstrated understanding of relevant research methods
Rubric
Grade | Letter Grade | Numerical Mark (%) | Standards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
High Distinction | HD | 80-100 | Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Distinction | D | 70-79 | Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Credit | C | 60-69 | Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Pass | P | 50-59 | Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Fail | N | 0-49 | Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated |
Assessment Task 6
Learning Outcomes: 1,2,3,4
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 3
Interview transcript: Submit an excerpt from a transcription of an interview that you conducted with an individual from your chosen musical community. Introduce the transcript with a description of the context of the interview (e.g. time, location, and your relationship to the person you interviewed). See the Interview Suggestions on the course Wattle site for guidelines as you prepare for your interview.
Due date: Tuesday, 23 April, 4 pm
Value: 5%
Word Count: 300 words
Estimated return date: within 2 weeks of submission
Assessment criteria:
- Quality of interview questions
- Evidence of listening skills and respectful interaction with interviewee
- Demonstrated understanding of relevant research methods
Rubric
Grade | Letter Grade | Numerical Mark (%) | Standards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
High Distinction | HD | 80-100 | Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Distinction | D | 70-79 | Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Credit | C | 60-69 | Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Pass | P | 50-59 | Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Fail | N | 0-49 | Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated |
Assessment Task 7
Learning Outcomes: 1,2,3,4
Ethnographic Portfolio Part 4
Reflection and self-evaluation: Review your ethnographic portfolio and performance ethnography paper. Discuss 2-3 things you particularly like about your work and 1-2 areas where you could improve. What would you do differently if you had more time? What is the most interesting thing you learned through this research? What questions might you explore through further research?
Due date: Tuesday, 28 May, 4 pm
Word count: 300 words
Value: 5%
Estimated return date: within 2 weeks of submission
Assessment criteria:
- Evidence of critical reflection on individual learning process, achievements, and challenges
- Engagement with relevant concepts and ideas from course materials and individual research
- Evidence of growth and improvement over time
Rubric
Grade | Letter Grade | Numerical Mark (%) | Standards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
High Distinction | HD | 80-100 | Work of exceptional quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Distinction | D | 70-79 | Work of superior quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Credit | C | 60-69 | Work of good quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Pass | P | 50-59 | Work of satisfactory quality, as demonstrated in the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level | ||
Fail | N | 0-49 | Work in which the attainment of learning outcomes at or above the relevant qualification level has not been demonstrated |
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a core part of our culture as a community of scholars. At its heart, academic integrity is about behaving ethically. This means that all members of the community commit to honest and responsible scholarly practice and to upholding these values with respect and fairness. The Australian National University commits to embedding the values of academic integrity in our teaching and learning. We ensure that all members of our community understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. The ANU expects staff and students to uphold high standards of academic integrity and act ethically and honestly, to ensure the quality and value of the qualification that you will graduate with. The University has policies and procedures in place to promote academic integrity and manage academic misconduct. Visit the following Academic honesty & plagiarism website for more information about academic integrity and what the ANU considers academic misconduct. The ANU offers a number of services to assist students with their assignments, examinations, and other learning activities. The Academic Skills and Learning Centre offers a number of workshops and seminars that you may find useful for your studies.
Online Submission
You will be required to electronically sign a declaration as part of the submission of your assignment. Please keep a copy of the assignment for your records. Unless an exemption has been approved by the Associate Dean (Education) as submission must be through Turnitin.
Hardcopy Submission
For some forms of assessment (hand written assignments, art works, laboratory notes, etc.) hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of tasks completed for your records.
Late Submission
Late submission of assessment tasks without an extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Late submission is not accepted for take-home examinations.
Referencing Requirements
Accepted academic practice for referencing sources that you use in presentations can be found via the links on the Wattle site, under the file named “ANU and College Policies, Program Information, Student Support Services and Assessment”. Alternatively, you can seek help through the Students Learning Development website.
Returning Assignments
Student work will be returned through Turnitin with instructor comments. Students who wish to receive additional feedback on assignments should come to the instructor’s consultation hours.
Extensions and Penalties
Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure. The Course Convener may grant extensions for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.
Resubmission of Assignments
Assignments may not be resubmitted.
Privacy Notice
The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information.In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service – including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy.
If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.
Distribution of grades policy
Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes.
Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.
Support for students
The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).
- ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
- ANU Diversity and inclusion for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
- ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
- ANU Academic Skills and Learning Centre supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
- ANU Counselling Centre promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
- ANUSA supports and represents undergraduate and ANU College students
- PARSA supports and represents postgraduate and research students
Convener
![]() |
|
|||
Research InterestsMusic, gender and health; music and Islam; music and migration; political economy of performance; music of Africa and the African diaspora |
Dr Bonnie McConnell
![]() |
|
Instructor
![]() |
|
|||
Research Interests |
Dr Bonnie McConnell
![]() |
|