History of Jazz

Course Number
MHIS-319
Description

This course examines the history of jazz, from its African roots and 19th-century precursors to today. It includes a survey of major artists, groups, and periods, including African American folk forms, ragtime, New Orleans, the swing era, Latin jazz, bebop, and other movements. Issues of gender and diversity in jazz are discussed. Students examine historical sources and recent critical commentary to inform the study of the meaning and place of jazz in American society and global culture. Guided listening builds understanding of form and structure in this art form.

Credits
2
Prerequisites
MHIS-221
Required Of
None
Electable By
All B.M. and P.D. students
Semesters Offered
Fall, Spring, Summer
Location
Boston
Department
LART
Course Chair
Marcela Castillo-Rama
Courses may not be offered at the listed locations or taught by the listed faculty for every semester. Consult my.berklee.edu to find course information for a specific semester.