Key facts
UNE unit code: MUSI338
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
The study of music history provides the foundations for a deeper understanding of musical creativity in its original socio-cultural context and its changing reception to the present day. This unit focuses on musical developments from the early 20th century to today. When studying this unit you will explore a range of musical genres and styles through active listening and score analysis.
Using scholarly and musical sources, you will study movements in Western culture and society such as Expressionism, Free Atonality, Neo-classicism, Serial Music, the Avant-Garde, Postmodernism and Electro-Acoustic Music.
As well as providing a general overview, studies in this unit will concentrate on recent trends in the research and performance of 20th century and contemporary music.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- identify and interpret significant Western musical conventions and styles from movements in the modern and later eras;
- critically analyse music scores;
- demonstrate an understanding of technology in creating musical works, both in composition and performance; and
- apply developed information literacy and investigative skills relevant to the practice of musicology.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay 1 | Yes | 35% | All offerings | No. Words: 2000 |
| Essay 2 | Yes | 45% | All offerings | No. Words: 2500 |
| Listening Assessment | No | 20% | All offerings | No. Words: 1000 (equivalent) |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
The Norton Anthology of Western Music, Vol. 3: The Twentieth Century and After
ISBN: 9780393656435
Burkholder, J.P. and Palisca, C.V., W.W. Norton and Company 8th ed. 2019
Text refers to: All offerings
A History of Western Music International Student Edition
ISBN: 9780393668155
Burkholder, J.P., Grout, D.J. and Palisca, C.V., W.W. Norton & Company 10th ed. 2019
Text refers to: All offerings
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