Aims

The module will introduce the students to the history of Jazz Studies from 1920s up to today; consider the remodelling of jazz scholarship through the cultural critique of the jazz traditional canon; examine the opening towards world jazz and the formulation of the New Jazz Studies, paying attention to the global relevance of jazz theories and practices.

The aims of the module are:

•       to introduce students to Jazz Studies theories and methodologies;
•       to encourage the students to explore the historical and cultural complexity of jazz scholarship, through case studies from different countries;
•       to consider and examine key Jazz Studies works;
•       to improve critical thinking about the nature and role of jazz.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module typically covers a range of topics related to Jazz Studies, including:

•       Jazz: definitions and origins;
•       Jazz historiography;
•       The canonization of jazz;
•       New Jazz Studies;
•       Jazz in Europe / European jazz;
•       World jazz;
•       Jazz photography, art, film, and advertising.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will introduce issues, approaches and concepts, and give the opportunity to discuss and explore these further. Lectures will furthermore focus on the detailed study of selected works from selected scholars, artist, scenes, and cultures; on key issues that arise in the course of such study; and on the various approaches that Jazz Studies scholars may take.

Drop-in / Surgery one-to-one sessions are a further opportunity to explore in depth theories, approaches and case studies considered during lectures with the module leader, on the basis of the needs of each student.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The purpose of the essay is to present a well-informed debate that recognizes theoretical perspectives on Jazz Studies. The students should aim to debate thoroughly key critical issues, using comparative case studies where appropriate. The students should present a coherent argument and should show their ability to bring together information from different sources in a creative manner. The essay should therefore represent a synthesis of their readings and ideas, demonstrating the depth of their understanding of the examples and issues considered during the module.