In this proseminar course we are to approach popular music from a variety of perspectives by exploring major issues addressed and methodologies used in the study of popular music. The course is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars. While in the former key issues, concepts and theories will be identified, in the latter students will discuss ideas and engage in debates arising from the lectures and the required readings.
Readings for this course are drawn from a range of disciplines, such as
musicology, sociology, communications, cultural studies, political science, economics and music journalism. After reading and reflecting on literature on Anglo-American and international music industry, students are encouraged to bring in their own observations on the domestic (Taiwanese) and the regional (Chinese-speaking and Asian) markets for analysis and further discussion.
Through discussions on key concepts and terms of popular music, this course is intended to equip students with conceptual tools for studying and to provoke further debate on popular music and its culture.