Instructor: Estevan Azcona, 11:30AM-12:20PM, Daily, BH 139

In this course we will examine music and musical exchanges in and around the
U.S.-Mexico borderlands, considering both musical practices in the literal
border region (and beyond) and various concepts of 'borders' to discuss
cross-cultural consumption, hybridity, and criss-crossings of Mexican/North
American/Chicano/Latino musics and cultures. The course will survey the
various genres, styles, and ensembles; such as mariachi, Tejano,
rock'n'roll, chicken scratch, cumbia, and rap, paying attention to their
historical, regional, political, and musical significance. In addition, we
will also address a number of themes (i.e. the prevalence of Mexico,
identity and ethnicity, gender, and urbanization) important in the Mexican
American experience.

Although much of the class is lecture oriented, it is expected that the
discussion will predominate as the course progresses. Along with our
readings, we will have intensive listening, components and occasional film
screenings. Students will also write a thought piece based on examples,
class readings, or a film screening. Interested students may also
participate in an optional mariachi performance component as a way of
studying one particular performance tradition in-depth. There will be two
short quizzes and a final exam as well as presentations of student projects.
of the class.

Course materials: Course reader, listening materials

Grading:
two short quizzes				20% each
thought piece					20%
thought piece (3-5 pp.)			30%
class participation				10%

Fulfills a COAS Arts and Humanities, Traditions and Ideas distribution
requirement and is on List A for the COAS Culture Studies requirement.