My Country 'tis of Thee:
Musical Nationalism Around the World
February 4, 11, 18, 25
Starting in the late 19th century, musical nationalism led countries to develop a new classical music of their own. This new music proclaimed its nationalism in a number of different ways. Many incorporated traditional (or native) scales, rhythms, folk music or dances, forms, or instruments. Others were more nationalistic in content, celebrating national heroes, places or events, and setting texts by native poets. Finally, much nationalistic music was simply selfdefined. The act of being trained in your own country and writing music for local ensembles was often enough to make your music nationalistic.
In this lecture series, Music Professor Marc Falk will examine the roots of musical nationalism and trace its development and movement around the globe through the 20th century. The main focus will be on the music, but Falk will also examine the social, political, and cultural contexts that led to its creation. Each week will include lecture and sound recordings, as well as weekly live performances by both students and Falk.
Lecture One ("What is Musical Nationalism?") examines early nationalistic music and ideas in Germany, Italy and France, as well as the beginnings and development of musical nationalism in Russia.
Lecture Two ("The Spread of Musical Nationalism") explores musical nationalism in Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Scandinavia and England.
Lecture Three ("Musical Nationalism in the United States") offers a look at music of Charles Ives, Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein and other North American composers.
Lecture Four ("South of the Border") presents musical nationalism in Mexico, Brazil and Venezuela.
Sara Farrell (Psychology)
"I enjoy working with students on research projects that have clear applications in everyday life. It is most satisfying when students are highly engaged..."
