Music Listening and History Curriculum Overview

Course Description:
This course provides students with a focused exploration of music history through the music of history’s greats. Engage in a unique educational experience where a composer acts as both the narrator and analyst.

Historical Context Exploration:
- Delve into the daily life of a typical European. Understand the nuances of their everyday sounds, exploring the question: Could they stream music?
- Experience a Mass directed by Bach, picturing the setting, the aromas, and the physical sensations of the music, such as a pipe organ's vibrations.

Curricular Objectives:
- Learn about key pieces of classical music.
- Understand the development of musical elements from melodies to harmonies and learn essential terminology.

Course Structure:
- Chronological progression starting from the 16th century.

Instructional Methods:
- Use listening examples to transition through historical periods.
- Engage in guided group discussions and active listening sessions, encouraging students to interact via chat during music examples for real-time engagement.

Teaching Style:
- Interactive discussions and guided listening, where student inputs on the music's imagery and emotions are encouraged.

Student Interaction:
- Active participation in discussions and listening sessions, with opportunity for questions and feedback during instruction.

Additional Notes:
- Focus on chronological order of composers and essential dates. Personal lives of composers will not be covered.
- Featured music examples from composers like Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, J.S. Bach, W.A. Mozart, Ludwig Van Beethoven, and Dmitri Shostakovich.

Through this approach, students will become vigilant, active listeners, providing real-time feedback and comments that foster a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. 

Teacher guidance will enhance the auditory experience, highlighting different musical aspects. Each piece presents unique listening challenges and opportunities for students.