Music, Politics, and Power

This discussion-based seminar explores the intersection of music, politics and power in comparative and international perspective. Drawing broadly from works in the social sciences and the humanities focusing on different cultural contexts, political systems and historical periods, the course considers how music has served as a tool for forging and maintaining collective identities, resisting authority, and projecting political power. The course also looks at the transnational role of music in the exercise of “soft power,” for example through cultural diplomacy. Empirical material, including playlists of songs and performances exemplifying protest movements, state-sponsored music, and national and revolutionary anthems, will be drawn widely from across the globe.