Music Listening Reflection

Ode to Joy

Khawatim Soorat: Al Baqara

Chandmani Nutag

Ketwawng: Puspawarna

Hymn Viseisei Church

Alla Hai

Be sure to listen to all of the pieces first, then answer the questions and re-listen as needed!

After you have completed the required reading and listened to each piece as identified, please complete the following questions. Please keep in mind that the aim of these questions is not necessarily a right or wrong answer (you are NEVER graded on your opinion), but how well you present your ideas, demonstrate your understanding of the material, and support your reasoning.

1. Many texts and courses, including this one, offer you, the student, an idea or methodology for defining music. Before going too far into our exploration of World Music, it is important to understand how we personally define music. Please provide your own definition of music. What is it to you? What does it include (or not include)? What is music made up of? Who makes music (and/or who/what doesn’t)? Be descriptive and explain your reasoning.

2. Each of the pieces in this assignment is one that has been discussed in your text and/or explored in class. Each is unique reflecting different societies, purposes, social relevance and more. Choose one of the pieces from the assignment and discuss how you react to it in a human sense. What do you picture when you hear it? How does it make you feel? Does it mean anything to you from a cultural or humanistic standpoint? Why does it bring about these images and feelings when you listen to it? Be sure to explain your answer.

3. Within the music world, we make clear distinction between “world music” and “classical music.” In this assignment, you have been given examples of both. Based on your listening, do you believe there is a clear distinction? Why or why not? What, if any, is the distinction and is it as clear as many believe?

4. “Khawatim Soorat: Al Baqara” is a Quar’anic chant. In the culture of Islam, this is not considered music; however, common definitions of music and the five propositions for exploring world music give way for open interpretation of this idea. In your own words and thoughts on music, would you define this as music? Why or why not?