Music and Social Action

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/music-and-social-action

Introduction

# Course Review: Music and Social Action on Coursera In a world increasingly marked by social unrest and change, the intersection of art and activism has never been more crucial. The Coursera course titled **Music and Social Action** delves into the awakening consciousness of musicians and artists in the face of societal challenges. This course offers an insightful exploration into how music can serve as a channel for social change, encouraging musicians to reflect on their roles within their communities and society at large. Say goodbye to passive consumption of art; this course will leave you pondering your responsibility as an artist or an admirer of art in the context of the modern world. ## Course Overview **Instructor:** The course is taught by a team of knowledgeable educators seasoned in both music and social activism, guiding participants through complex theories and practical examples surrounding the influence of art on society. **Key Questions:** - How can musicians respond to the condition of the world? - Do artists bear a responsibility to utilize their work for the common good? - Is there an evolving space for classical music amidst new pressures and changes in the arts scene? These fundamental questions shape the learning experience, urging participants to not only consume but also engage with music as a catalyst for change. ## Syllabus Breakdown Let's break down some of the key modules that make this course both thought-provoking and engaging: ### 1. **Welcome to Music and Social Action** The course kicks off with a warm introduction, allowing participants to meet their peers and get acquainted with the course structure. It sets a collaborative tone, essential for fostering a community of learners invested in social change. ### 2. **What is Art and How Do We Experience It?** This module draws on the philosophies of John Dewey and Maxine Greene, positioning aesthetic experiences as transformative. It challenges participants to reflect on how art contributes to public life, creating a framework for future discussions. ### 3. **Democracy and the Arts, Parts I & II** Exploring the relationship between art, democracy, and civic engagement, these sections utilize engaging questions to incite thought. Artists' roles become not just those of entertainers but of active participants in shaping democratic society. ### 4. **Arts and Urban Renewal** Utilizing case studies of urban revitalization efforts through the arts, this module demonstrates how artists can be both pioneers and catalysts for change. This practical lens enriches the academic discussions surrounding community engagement in the arts. ### 5. **20th and 21st Century Artists and Social Commitment** The focus shifts to historical and contemporary figures who have used their platforms for social good. This exploration not only highlights inspiring narratives but also encourages participants to draw parallels with current movements and artists today. ### 6. **Creating Social Action** The final lecture synthesizes the course's themes, discussing best practices for creating social action through art. Participants are encouraged to develop their own initiatives, thus bridging theory with practice. ### 7. **Final Reflection** The course wraps up with a reflective discussion, connecting philosophical, historical, and practical aspects of art's role in society. This capstone project emphasizes personal connection and community engagement, making the learnings relevant to each participant. ## Recommendation Whether you're a musician, an artist, a student of social justice, or merely someone interested in the evolving relationship between art and society, **Music and Social Action** offers invaluable insights and actionable ideas. I highly recommend this course for: - **Musicians** looking to explore how they can actively contribute to social causes. - **Educators** seeking to integrate social justice themes into their curriculums. - **Community leaders** interested in engaging with local art initiatives. - **Anyone** passionate about utilizing art as a tool for positive change. In conclusion, enrolling in **Music and Social Action** equips you with not only a deeper understanding of the significance of art in social contexts but also empowers you to actively participate in the ongoing dialogue about the artist's role in society. Whether you're looking to make a difference or simply want to expand your understanding of the issue, this course is a valuable step forward. Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage thoughtfully with both music and social action!

Syllabus

Welcome to Music and Social Action

Learn what this course is about, who's teaching it, and other ways you can explore this topic. Meet and greet your peers as well!

In this module, we will discuss philosophers John Dewey and Maxine Greene, and their respective views on the possibilities contained within aesthetic experiences. How can aesthetic experience meaningfully contribute to public life?

How can artistic and aesthetic experiences make a more engaged public? Is there a connection between individual transformative experiences with art and any broader societal impact? What is the role of the artist in a democracy?

How have we conceived of the artist's role in American society? What are examples of artists furthering civil society? How do we continually imagine fulfilling the promise of a democracy, embracing Maxine Greene's notion that it is always unfinished?

How have the arts been a driving force for change in American cities? What are the potentials and pitfalls when positioning artists in this role? This class will pursue these questions through a series of case studies, including a video tour of arts organizations focused on urban renewal in Providence and New Haven, and the development of Lincoln Center in New York City.

This class will explore examples of artists from the past hundred years who have been committed to making positive contributions to political or social issues of their time.

This class will involve a discussion with performing musicians and a look at examples of artists and musicians from the past hundred years who have been committed to making positive contributions to political or social issues of their time.

In this final lecture, we will discuss traditions of social action, and how artists work toward building civil society.

One of the primary goals of this course has been to explore the connections between key concepts from the philosophy of aesthetics, historical examples of musicians who worked toward social action, and contemporary artistic initiatives. This final response is intended to help you consider how these theoretical and historical issues relate to the role of artists and the arts in contemporary life, and how they might apply to your own community and your own involvement with the arts.