Women in Music

This subject is not offered in 2016.

120 hours

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It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit.

A study of the ways in which gender and sexual difference have been represented in the making and composing of art music. Beginning with medieval women, this subject explores the social and cultural context of women composers and performers from Hildegard to Clara Schumann and Ethel Smyth through to contemporary composers such as Kaija Saariaho, as well as ideas of the “angel in the house” and the New Woman. It problematises women’s bodies, women’s voices and women’s place in society, examining music by and about women as well as representations of women’s music in art, literature and film.

On completion of this subject, students should have a detailed knowledge of women composers and musicians and their achievements and an understanding of the application of feminist theories to studies in music.

• One 1800-word review essay due mid-semester (40%)
• One 3200-word research essay due at the end of semester (55%)
• Participation in class discussion (5%)

A book of readings will be available from the Melbourne University Bookshop before the start of semester.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Students who have studied this subject should develop and enhance:

• their analytic and problem solving skills
• a capacity for independent critical thought