MEDS 258 - Studies in Sound

1 unit(s)

(Same as AMST 258) This course familiarizes students with the emerging field of sound studies. We spend the first eight weeks exploring the different facets of sound culture: histories and ethnographies of listening; theories of sound capture and reproduction; the political economy of recording media (particularly the MP3); the experience of the modern American soundscape. We conclude with case studies of contemporary sonic experiences: “glitch”-based digital music and the aesthetics of failure; new developments in sonic weaponry; art and activism that “listens” to drones and the US-Mexico border. Hua Hsu.

Prerequisite(s): 100-level course work within the multidisciplinary programs, or permission of the instructor.

Two 75-minute periods.

Not offered in 2018/19.