MS 310 - Historical Performance Practice

Students will explore a variety of different performing practices, many of which are categorically distinct from 21st-century conventions. We will consider a range of issues that will encourage fundamental refinement of our understanding of basic musical issues, including notation, tempo, musical style, and instrument choice. Demonstrations on historical instruments will be a key feature of the course, through which students will study not only relevant issues of organology, but also consider their musical consequences. Furthermore, we will custom-design each semester to include special topics based on those enrolled in the course.