Approved by the University of Hull January 2017 (2016+) Version 1.5
Module Specification
Module Title: Contextual Studies 1 (Popular)
Module code:
HBAMPM004
NQF level:
Level 4
Credit value:
30 credits
Semester of study:
1 and 2
Module type:
Compulsory
Pre-requisites:
None
Available to:
BA (Hons) Music (Popular)
Module overview
This team-taught module equips students with compositional, musicological and aural skills through the examination
of repertoire, styles, literature, concepts and discourse to better understand the effect of these on society. It is
delivered via lectures, workshops and seminars. Students will investigate the parameters through which we consume
and construct music, how we communicate their use, the social, commercial and contextual issues surrounding
them, and the manner in which we can employ these parameters to popular music practice. The module seeks to
challenge the students’ understanding of how music is constructed, used and interpreted within popular culture.
Students will also be expected to compose as part of the module and consider their creative choices in a wider
contextual frame.
Aims
This module forms part of the contextual studies strand of the programme and addresses core musical and academic
skills that support the students’ specialist study with particular reference to their pathway.
The module aims to:
1. Equip students with the fundamental skills and knowledge essential to the understanding, appreciation and
creation of music.
2. Explore, evaluate and apply the core musical skills (associated with relevant repertoire if appropriate).
3. Develop an understanding of repertoire and where appropriate, explore its social and cultural context.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Integrate theory and practice.
2. Identify and evaluate the structural, cultural and social aspects of key repertoire.
3. Apply harmonic and rhythmic conventions.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of repertoire through its social and cultural context, production and reception.
Learning and teaching methods
Lectures: concepts, principles and theories will be explored in formal lectures. They will be relevant to the particular
pathway.
Workshops/seminars: skills are developed in workshops and seminars along with cognitive and personal skills in
open-ended problem solving exercises by working in small groups supported by members of academic staff.
Contact hours and directed study (over semesters 1 and 2)
Delivery type
Student hours
Indicative hours for learning and teaching activities
60 hours
Indicative hours of directed study
240 hours
Total hours (100hrs per 10 credits)
300 hours
