Popular Music

The approach of this book, first published in 1982, is multi-disciplinary. Popular music, it is argued, is not only a musical but also a social phenomenon; the criteria needed to assess it are different from those used in the appreciation of 'classical' music. The first section of this guide is devoted to setting out just what those criteria should be. A second section puts forward bases for course construction that are detailed and flexible. A final section provides a list of further resources.

Part 1. Why this Series? Part 2. Guidance for Teachers and Classroom Projects 1. Introduction 2. Alternative Criteria: Meaning and Implications 3. Rhythm in Afro-American Music 4. Singing 5. Melody, Harmony, Counterpoint and Form 6. Orchestration, Tone and Timbre 7. Popular Song Lyrics 8. Youth Culture 9. Black Studies 10. References Part 3. Further Resources 11. Folksong and Music Hall Edward Lee 12. Jazz and Blues Graham Vulliamy 13. Tin Pan Alley John Shepherd 14. Rock 'n' Roll Dave Rogers 15. Soul and Motown Simon Frith 16. Reggae and Caribbean Music Dick Hebdige 17. Contemporary Folk Song Brian Carroll 18. Rock Music Dave Rogers