MUSI355

This course explores diverse topics in the psychology of music, requiring no previous knowledge in either subject. The course engages fundamental questions such as: Why did humans evolve to be musically aware and creative? Why does music affect our moods and emotions to much? How do we hear and interpret melodies, harmonies, and rhythms? How can music help people heal from illness or anxiety? Topics may include music and human evolution, human perception of the acoustics of sound, perception of musical elements and structures, music and memory, musical acquisition especially in children, neurological interactions with music, music and emotion, music therapy, and psychology of musical composition and performance, and other effects of music on people. Through weekly readings, listening examples, discussions, assignments, and in-class activities, students will learn the basic aspects of and contemporary debates surrounding these diverse topics. Students will also research and write about a topic of their choosing.