William E. Doyle USC Dissertation (original) (raw)

Musical Aesthetics: An Objective Approach to "Music Appreciation" for American Public Education

1988

The specific problem prompting this investigation is the creation of a method of music criticism. The purposes for the investigation are three in number. First and foremost, the purpose of the investigation is to develop an unrestricted method of music criticism. The development of such a method fulfills the second reason for the investigation. Although Mortimer Adler and the Paideia Group have clearly stated the classes and pedagogy to be utilized in a Paideia curriculum, they have done little to suggest specific class content. This study resolves the content problem for one class. It is recommended that the music masterworks class be treated as a course in music criticism. Through such treatment of the class, students will meet the goals of the Paideia Group and develop the tools for societal reconstruction. Finally, the goal of establishing a method of music criticism harmonious with the educational philosophy of reconstructionism is the end to the previous two "means" ...

Introduction, "College Music Curricula for a New Century"

The essay begins by providing an overview of the many challenges currently facing institutions that offer degrees in applied music. It continues by discussing previous attempts at reform in various sub-disciplines and by providing an overview of the many innovative curricular experiments that are taking place now nationally and internationally. Next, the essay proposes five “guiding principles” or commitments that could be used to re-orient existing music curricula for the twenty-first century. These include (1) a commitment to community, (2) a commitment to the practical concerns of aspiring professional musicians, (3) a commitment to global awareness, (4) a commitment to social justice, and (5) a commitment to creative, self-driven student projects and practices. The chapter concludes with an overview of the contributions of other authors later in the volume.