MUSI305

The course will explore and analyze the music of Pink Floyd, one of the most successful and influential musical acts of the 20th century. The course will focus primarily on the artistic merits of the band: the music, lyrics, and visualizations created in their recorded albums, live concerts, and films. The social and cultural backdrop will be addressed as part of the exploration of the evolution in the band’s style. Through discussion, research, analysis, performance, and creative work, students will explore the place and influence of the band in the history of popular music and its contribution to the genre of rock. The course will follow a loose chronological examination of Pink Floyd’s career, while each class will concentrate on a central question relating to issues in popular music. Music reading and/or background in music performance are recommended.