An introduction to the music of Spain and Latin America within a historical and social context. The program covers the best possible examples of folkloric, popular and other types of music with the objective of providing a useful and yet concise overview. Most of the music discussed incorporates dance and poetic text, achieving such standards that have enriched the cultural scene of both Spain and Latin America. (3 credits)

This course is a survey of Western musical practice from the Middle Ages to the 21^st century. While learning how to develop critical listening skills, the student will explore each different stylistic period, its historical context and certain musical parameters that may be emphasized in the music (pitch, rhythm, counterpoint, harmony, sound, etc).

The main goal is to show the student that music has the capacity to codify multiple layers of meaning and how s/he can develop the tools to uncover them.