Read Ch 12 “Style and Function of Music in Society” especially about the classification of music: Cultivated versus Vernacular

*ballet (Swan Lake): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rJoB7y6Ncs&feature=youtu.be&list=RD9rJoB7y6Ncs

*Gospel (Kirk Franklin): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6oyuSw7J5s

View each performance and take notes on what you see, hear, and experience. Use Ch 13 “Putting Music into Words” as a guide. Gather as much detail on the music as possible, especially connecting specific timings (3’44” – Using 3’44” only as an example on how to quote a timing from a video: 3′ = 3 minutes, 44″ = 44 seconds, 3’44” = 3 minutes 44 seconds) to the elements of the music that you highlight. Strive to make connections between the cultivated side of music and vernacular. Both of these types of music are relevant and cherished by mankind. Why is that?

Is it possible to appreciate both cultivated and vernacular music?

After viewing the performances and contemplating their significance, formulate a thesis statement that defines, in your opinion, the relationship between cultivated and vernacular music. Your THESIS must make a STATEMENT that unites cultivated and vernacular music in some way, in spite of their obvious differences. Thesis statement should include both the identification of a shared musical element and an opposing-contrasting musical element.

*Support your thesis statement by the following 3 points of comparison:

a. Presentation style. Give a detailed description of all aspects of presentation. What type of atmosphere was created at each performance? How did the creation of atmosphere shape your expectation and response to the music? Describe the quality of performance, including energy level, technical ability, and professionalism.

b. Musical mechanics. Highlight 3 musical elements from each concert (totaling 6 musical elements) and include the specific TITLE of the pieces/songs described. Describe in detail aspects of the music that stood out to you, linking musical elements to timings (3’44”) from the concert videos.