Assignment
Write short paragraphs in response to the following questions, describing sound and cultural context as specifically as possible, while using terms from the textbook and class lectures.
1. Consider the sonic differences between the arranged folk music of Russia and Bulgaria, and the musical traditions that they came from (field calls, village dances and songs). Describe at least two differences and two similarities in the sonic material.
2. In light of these differences, consider the purposeful project of arranging folk music for use in Soviet institutions like state radio stations, state folklore troupes, and concert halls. How did the politics of the rise of the Soviet Union manifest themselves musically?
3. Though not covered in lecture, Reggae and other musical genres from Jamaica are also deeply connected with politics. Read the relevant portion of Ch. 11 (236-241) and listen to CD 2 track 6, then comment on how the music on track 6 connects to political struggle as well as religious belief and practice.
4. Many musical genres and practices are deeply connected with political processes. Describe an example of music that serves a political movement that you a familiar with from your own personal musical collection. Be sure to discuss both musical sound and how it connects to political ideology and cultural context.