Each of the several specialised areas of music research (performance, composition, musicology, and ethnomusicology) has its own methodological traditions, and commonly applied conceptual approaches. This course will explore these traditions in a historical context, giving students the opportunity to engage with the evolution of this discipline. Additionally, we will be investigating current trends and issues in the field through critical examination of recent literature. In the 21st century, researchers commonly work across several areas of inquiry, and this course will enable students to develop a fundamental recognition of research methods in all major areas of music research.

1. Investigate and critique established and new research methods in music
2. Evaluate historical and contemporary research methods.
3. Apply multiple perspectives to music-related research
4. Produce arguments for or against particular methodological approaches, and marshal evidence
5. Discuss and debate key themes, concepts and theories with peers
6. Integrate understandings of multiple research methods with the student's own HDR project

The course will be assessed as pass/fail. Students must gain a pass grade for each component of the assessment.

Journal of critical responses to reading 1500-2000 words 20% [Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3]

Attendance and seminar participation 30% [Learning outcomes 4, 5, 6]

Presented paper. Topic to be negotiated with course coordinator. Time limit 20 mins, 2500-3000 words  50% [All learning outcomes]

Attendance at all scheduled seminars is compulsory, except in exceptional circumstances. In the case of inability to attend, suitable documentation must be provided to the course coordinator [eg medical certificate]. No more than one day of the course can be missed, or a fail grade will be recorded.

Intensive Seminars over 5 days, to include seminar-style discussions and presentations from students and members of academic staff at ANU. The 5 days of seminar need not be consecutive.

Set readings and prescribed texts to be read and prepared for discussion prior to intensive seminars.

Two meetings with course coordinator prior to intensive seminars to discuss preparation of student presentation.

Student will prepare a presentation to give during the intensive seminars, as a formal paper.

none

a high level of music literacy is assumed, commensurate with expectations for entry to the HDR programs in music.

a high level of English language profficiency is assumed, commensurate with entry requirements for HDR programs in music.

An Introduction to Music Studies. Ed Samson and Harper-Scott. CUP, 2009

Musicology: the key concepts. Beard & Gloag. Routledge, 2005

A detailed reading list of book chapters and articles will be given upon enrolment.