Examines music as a form of communication distinct from traditional verbal and nonverbal forms, and considers how our relationship with music shapes and reflects our social, emotional, or cognitive states and identities. Takes a social scientific approach to this domain with detours into some less empirical areas such as how we ascribe meaning to music, and the sociopolitical impact that music may have. Not a music skills or appreciation class.
4
UnitsOptional
Grading1, 2, 3
PasstimeNot open to freshmen
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeDr. Abra was my favorite lecturer throughout all of my time at UCSB.He was the only lecturer that I have ever really learned anything from. I've taken like 5 classes with him just because his lectures are so engaging. You do have to pay attention and you have to read for a good grade, but the material in his lectures will make you WANT to.Take him!
Nothing correlated to core ideas. Nothing felt in depth, and I have not learned anything interesting about music, industry, or the history of it. It feels more like him showing baseline things and rambling as if he knew everything. (his concentration is in criminal law studies). It is just lectures no slides, prioritize memorization, I guess.
COMM179 Music class. 1 midterm, 1 paper, 1 final. Combines the lectures/readings for exams. No slides and rants a lot of the time. Memorization is literally the only thing he tests, so you're good it comes easy to you. A lot of his lecture are just his opinion on things. Readings were interesting. I would never take one of his classes again though.
Music comm course was super interesting lectures extremely engaging. He doesnt use slides & interacts with the class a lot which I loved. Graded on 3 exams (2 midterms & final) & 1 final paper. Dont take the course if you dont read you will do poorly. Readings are dense but start them early (no other homework). loved this class overall!
Dr. Abra is a very intelligent professor, and cares a lot about the social sciences. His classes help me actually apply the knowledge I gain as a COMM major into the real world. His new class, Music Communication, was interesting, even though it had a few bugs. He expects a lot from his students, but those who do the work have a great experience.
I haven't finished the course yet, Im in Comm129. I love him so much, I am very picky with my professors. He is so engaging and cares what he is lecturing. He doesn't use google slides, only lectures and uses the chalk board. Honestly he is my favorite professor ive had in my four years in college. T