Areas of Inquiry

1. Music for sociocultural and political expression

This area focuses on music that expresses and communicates social and cultural messages, conveys political ideas and/or helps preserve social and cultural traditions.

Examples of relevant musical materials may include the following genres.

• Protest songs

• Liturgical music

• National anthems

2. Music for listening and performance

This area focuses on music that expresses and communicates intrinsic aesthetic values. Such music is sometimes referred to as “absolute music”.

Examples of relevant music materials may include the following genres.

• Chamber music of the Western art tradition

• Cool jazz

• Experimental music

3. Music for dramatic impact, movement and entertainment

This area focuses on music used for dramatic effect, music that supports choreographed movement or dance and/or music that is incidental or intended to purposefully serve as entertainment.

Examples of relevant music materials may include the following genres.

• Music for film

• Music for ballet

• Musical theatre

4. Music technology in the electronic and digital age

This area focuses on music created, performed and/or produced using electronic or digital technologies. Such technologies are an important aspect of contemporary musical experiences, often transforming some of the ways that we understand and engage with music.

Examples of relevant musical materials may include the following genres.

• Electronic dance music

• Elektronische Musik

• Technology in popular music production