Fall 2012

Sacred Sound

Listed in: Music, as MUSI-123

Formerly listed as: MUSI-03

Faculty

Jeffers L. Engelhardt (Section 01)

Description

Sacred Sound examines the relationship between music and religion in broad comparative perspective. In the context of major world religions, new religious movements, and traditional spiritual practices, we will address fundamental issues concerning sacred sound: How does music enable and enhance the ritual process? How is sound sacred and what are its affects? What happens as sacred sound circulates globally among diverse communities of listeners and in secular spaces? Listening, reading, and discussion will include Sufi music from Pakistan, Haitian Vodou, the songs of Ugandan Jews, Orthodox Christian hymns from Estonia, Islamic popular music from Malaysia, Chinese Buddhist chant, spirit possession music from Bali, and the music of Korean Shamans. We will also benefit from visiting performers and the sacred sounds of religious communities in and around Amherst. Two class meetings per week.

Limited to 25 students. Fall semester. Professor Engelhardt.

MUSI 123 - L/D

Section 01
M 08:30 AM - 09:50 AM ARMU 212
W 08:30 AM - 09:50 AM ARMU 212

Offerings

2024-25: Not offered
Other years: Offered in Fall 2007, Spring 2009, Fall 2012, Fall 2016, Fall 2020, Spring 2022