Module description
This module provides an in-depth critical introduction to a range of important concepts, musical works, institutions and people in music of a given time period, and explores both their impact on musical culture and their relationship to wider political, social and artistic issues.
In 2025-26, this unit focuses on Haydn and the European Enlightenment. We will set Haydn’s biography and music in the context of Enlightenment reforms and debates about human nature, political organisation, faith, science, and sociability. In doing so, we will explore Haydn in his contexts – not the heirloom musicological contexts of ‘Viennese Classical Style’ or ‘the father of symphony’. Though we will look closely at pieces, this unit is less ‘notes’ based (less analytical) than my other level 5 unit (5AAMS281).
Assessment details
- 1250 Word Critical Commentary (35%)
- 2500 Word Essay (65%)
Educational aims & objectives
To provide a detailed understanding of a range of important concepts, works, institutions and figures and their impact on music and musical culture during a given time period.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable and practical skills appropriate to a Level 5 module and in particular will be able to demonstrate:
- A thorough understanding of a variety of important figures, works and concepts in music during a given time period
- A good understanding of the relationship between music of a given time period and wider social, political and artistic issues
- An ability to discuss a range of relevant scholarly texts and to make use of them in a coherent, persuasive argument.