Ethnography and Performance Theory
In order to write an ethnography, you will need to first study the following three performance theories. The theory by Jeff Todd Titon is the one which I covered extensively in class. If you missed those classes, you are responsible for getting the notes for the lectures since there were no power-point slides. 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: (counts toward Ethnography Grade)
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.
