A study of music in Aboriginal society, in both traditional tribal and contemporary contexts. The course will examine the relationship of music to spiritual beliefs, ceremonies, social structures, dance and art, in music of the Aborigines from Central Australia and Arnhem Land, and will examine issues relating to changing contexts in Aboriginal society. Students also participate in a weekly workshop, which develops their intercultural understanding through the experience of playing and singing music from oral cultures.

Tutorial assignments (20%), written project (30%), examination (30%), and practical workshop (20%).

One lecture, one tutorial and one workshop each week.

Although Central Concepts of Music (MUSM1201) or Highlights of World Music (MUSM1239) are the normal prerequisites for this course, it has a broadly humanistic perspective and may be studied without musical prerequisites with the permission of the Coordinator.

Ellis, C, Aboriginal Music, Education for Living: Cross Cultural Experiences from South Australia, Uni of Queensland, 1985

Breen, M, ed, Our Place, Our Music, Aboriginal Studies, 1989

Required and recommended reading and listening as directed by the lecturer