DESCRIPTION: The course will investigate some of the social, ethical, and
psychological implications of popular music upon theology, and in turn seek a
theological engagement with the diverse and varied contours of popular music.
We live in an age where popular music provides a "soundtrack" to our lives;
this course will explore the theological implications of this cultural
artifact.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Through examination and investigation of popular music,
interactive discussion, and class lectures, students will (1) gain a broad
understanding of both the structure and social contexts of popular music; (2)
gain an understanding of the moral and philosophical drive of many areas of
popular music; (3) be equipped to engage theologically with one of the most
important dynamics of contemporary culture; and (4) understand the ways in
which popular music influences and shapes contemporary church and worship
life.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Music plays an integral role in contemporary life, it
also plays a pivotal role in both congregational worship and evangelism--this
class will equip those seeking to engage contemporary culture, be it in a
pastoral ministry or social setting, by deepening our understanding of the
nature of music and its role in our lives. The class will also be of benefit to
aspiring/practicing musicians and composers.
COURSE FORMAT: Classes will be divided between lecture and interactive
discussion combined with multimedia approaches to listening and understanding
popular music. Class will meet twice weekly in two-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING:
Frith, Simon. Performing Rites. Pantheon, 1981.
Stephens, Ken. What to Listen for in Rock. Yale University Press,
2002.
Hesmondaugh, David, and Keith Negus. Popular Music Studies. Oxford
University Press, 2002.
Storey, John. Cultural Studies and the Study of Popular Culture.
University Georgia Press, 1996.
Vanhoozer, Kevin J., ed. Everyday Theology. Baker Academic, 2007.
* Listening to a selection of popular music spanning the history of the medium
will be a required part of the curriculum (guidelines for this will be
presented in class).
RECOMMENDED READING: