Unit of study_

MUSC2691: Music and Politics

2026 unit information

This unit of study offers students a comprehensive understanding of interrelations and convergences between music and politics from a variety of musical genres and political circumstances. Students will be introduced to theoretical models for examining the social agency of musical expression, they will analyse the politics of convention and innovation within musical traditions, and examine musical dialogues that have reflected and influenced momentous social and political movements. No formal musical training necessary.

Unit details and rules

Managing faculty or University school:

Sydney Conservatorium of Music

Study level Undergraduate
Academic unit Analysis, History and Cultural Studies
Credit points 6
Prerequisites:
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None
Corequisites:
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None
Prohibitions:
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None
Assumed knowledge:
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None

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Identify how music has been used to express resistance, protest, and solidarity across political contexts.
  • LO2. Conduct close readings of key songs, analyzing lyrics, performance, and context to uncover their political and social meanings.
  • LO3. Evaluate how politics has been represented, challenged, or advanced through music

Unit availability

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Session MoA ?  Location Outline ? 
Semester 2 2025
Normal day Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney
Session MoA ?  Location Outline ? 
Semester 2 2026
Normal day Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney
Outline unavailable
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Modes of attendance (MoA)

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