MUS327 Field Research Project
MUS327 Field Research Project
You will be submitting a 5-page (1,200-word) research paper on a “local” music practice, artist, or performer from within your community (see text pp. 365-366). You will choose the subject. Given the realities of COVID-19, I am defining “local” and “community” to include not only your physical surroundings, but also your family traditions, relatives, cultural background, friends, neighbors, or the broader world of online performances and playlists (i.e., youtube).
You will then prepare a 5-page (1,200-word) a paper introducing us to the practice and performers. Your paper will include research on the genre itself, and a detailed review of a spotlight performance or performer.
The first part of your paper will include the history and research about the genre.
The second half will introduce us to a particular performance, performer, scene, or event.
Your paper should be written in complete sentences and should describe your subject’s musical style, history, influence, plans, repertoire and your personal comments. A recording, photograph or other non-verbal documentation is required.
Rubric is attached:
Research Project Grading Rubric (.66 point each)
Project Definition
Definition of scope (performer(s), genre, performance, scene)
Your relationship with subject/topic
Cultural association/identity of music, genre, or scene
Region or other community of practice
Inclusion of cited sources for above information
Research/History
History of genre or practice
Analysis of importance of genre or practice to its associated community
Inclusion of cited sources for above information
Your analysis or interpretation of the practice in general
Reflections of importance of genre or practice to YOU, personally
Biography/History of chosen performer, performance, event, album, or other specific practice
Background/history/training/context
Specific information about the performance, event, or performer in question (date of performance, length, participants/contents)
Backstory/context for event or release about it
Inclusion of cited sources for above information
Media, websites, or other context-setting materials surrounding the performance or event
Your personal interaction with or discovery of event or performance
Your reflections on the context surrounding the performance or your interaction with it
Performance/Event
Songs played
Audience response (youtube comments are fine)
Embedded samples of videos or recordings
Other people’s responses or reactions
Your reflections on performance/event
Tie to class material
Connect the performance/genre to at least three practices learned about in class (.66 each)
Describe the specific connection to each practice
Cite page numbers and/or recording tracks from the text and CD to support your connections
Reflect on those connections. Why might they be?
Writing Standards
organization, coherence, grammar, punctuation
1,200 words
Textbook
Locke, J.T.T.T.J.C. D. (2010). Worlds of Music: An Introduction to the Music of the World’s Peoples, Shorter Version.