Ethnography and Performance Theory
In order to write an ethnography, first study the following three performance theories. The theory by Jeff Todd Titon is the one which is covered extensively in class. The Ruth M. Stone chapter is located in the "files" folder on Canvas and the Bakan theory is covered within your textbook.
Readings:
Jeff Todd Titon, "A Music-Culture Performance Model," AND Four Components of Music-Culture," Worlds of Music, Third ed. Shorter. Schirmer (2006), pages 15-30. Located in the Files folder on Canvas.
Ruth M. Stone, "Performance Theory in Ethnomusicology," Theory for Ethnomusicology. Pearson Prentice Hall (2008) pages 136-143. Specifically look at Bauman's "assumptions." on the second page of the chapter.
Review: Michael Bakan, Chapter 1: “A Point of Departure: Five Propositions for Exploring World Music,” World Music: Traditions and Transformations, 2nd. Ed., McGraw Hill (2012) pages 3-7. (Focus Especially on Proposition 4)
Writing Assignment:
Compare and contrast the performance theories proposed by Jeff Todd Titon, Ruth M. Stone, and the author of your text, Michael Bakan (chapter 1).
Be sure to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each theoretical framework by using real examples from either music we have already studied in class or examples from your own experience.
Explain which theoretical frame works best for your ethnography project.
Outline the specific reasons for your choice.
Your paper should be between three and four pages in length, double-spaced, and 12-point font.
