Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

- To provide an introduction to the academic study of salsa music at UG level
- To provide a platform for the study of cultural options in world music later in the UG degree programmes
- To enable a familiarisation with the basic characteristics of a selection of musical styles and systems across Latin America and its diaspora
- To acquire knowledge and appreciation of the diverse forms of musical expressions found under the umbrella term ‘salsa’
- To acquire an understanding of the importance and relevance of considering music and music-making in relation to their cultural and social contexts
- To provoke thought and understanding of salsa music traditions, including their differences and similarities as well as how (and why) they arise and develop
- To instil appreciation regarding the ways salsa music and musical participation provide mediums into understanding world cultures in general

Outline Of Syllabus

This module gives the further opportunity to learn about world music by ‘doing it.’ A variety of music performance contexts that fall under the heading of ‘salsa’ will be studied, including plena (Puerto Rico), merengue (Dominican Republic) and son (Cuba). Students will study popular rhythmic styles including mambo, son-montuno, cha cha cha, bolero, merengue, guaguanco and others.

Apart from providing a practical introduction to salsa music, this module will also help students develop a range of general musical skills valuable to their existing musical practice(s) – e.g. improved listening, rhythmic and ensemble sense, intonation, ability to improvise.


No prior experience of playing in salsa music ensembles is necessary. As a student on the module you’ll help build a community of practitioners; and, related to this, you’ll get to organise and participate in large ensembles, sectionals, informal performances and more formal performances.

Tuition will take place weekly, and will be supplemented with small sectionals.

Assessment will be based on a combination of elements, reflecting the fact that this will be a new practice for most students. The core of activities will comprise: (1) participating in weekly ensemble rehearsals; (2) participating in periodic sectionals and small group practice sessions; (3) participating in performances (formal and informal); and (4) assuming regular daily individual practice. During the year, students all will attend and/or contribute to: (1) seminars, discussing themes around salsa music practical study, issues concerning transcription and arranging, useful models from ethnomusicology for reflection on the process, modes of self-evaluation; and (2) salsa music performances and workshops (e.g., in the wider community and local schools, dance clubs in city centre).

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

- Knowledge and understanding of a range of musical expressions and performance contexts that fall under the umbrella term ‘salsa’
- Knowledge and understanding of how salsa musical performance is constructed and enacted in performance
- Knowledge of a range of terms and concepts essential to salsa music practice (e.g., clave, montuno, etc.).
- Knowledge of key facts about salsa music musical learning cultures
- Knowledge about the wider repertoires in salsa music
- Understanding issues raised in encountering the music of other cultures or music outside usual practice

Intended Skill Outcomes

- An improved ability to analyse and discuss approaches to salsa music and music-making
- Greater skill in assessing and applying ethnomusicological and cultural-theoretical perspectives to the study and the performance of salsa
- A basic foundation in practical salsa music performance study
- Experience of working with others
- Organisation of self and others
- Ability to reflect productivity on practical experiences and cultural and musical encounters

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Ensemble and sectional teaching provides the core of students’ practical learning. Seminars provide fora in which students learn performance, transcription, arranging and composition skills and exchange ideas on wider issues of interpretation and performance practice.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Salsa music performances and tutors' report evaluate basic practical foundation, absorption in practice of key concepts etc. and overall level of progress and application in tour core practical study. Research project evaluates your ability to conduct individual research into a topic informing your practice.

General Notes

N/A