Music and Politics (MUSI20204)

This subject examines the complex relationship between music and politics from a number of different perspectives, through a series of case studies and key moments in history, demonstrating that music never completely transcends politics but is deeply implicated in many forms of social action and control. It examines issues including the use (and abuse) of music by political regimes, the role of music in international diplomacy, and the function of music in social action and revolution. Students will gain interdisciplinary perspectives on research into studying music and politics, and develop skills to critique the ways in which music is used (or abused) for political motives or economic interests.