Unengaging. Acts like he's hot stuff and in his field he's definitely knowledgeable, but it doesn't translate well to the classroom. Readings feel pointless. On the bright side, tests are absurdly easy.

Phil is the most condescending professor I have ever had at UCSB. He asks students for their opinion and then tells them why their opinion is wrong and why he is right. He makes snide comments that make you want to slap the man. Although, the content is easy to understand. No textbook, 1 midterm, 3 concerts are required, and one 1500 word paper.

He was really passionate about what he was teaching. The midterm and final are pretty easy because of the study guide he provides beforehand. There's one paper at the end of the quarter that wasn't hard to write. I would recommend taking this for a GE!

Phil is a great professor! Go to all lectures and take good notes. You are also given the midterm and final questions ahead of time so study them and you'll be set. There is one final paper due at the end so take advantage of office hours sooner than later and Phil will help you get a good grade on it. You can also argue back points on tests!

Phil was great! Very passionate about the subject, nice, wants class participation!

Phil is an amazing lecturer. Really passionate about teaching and likes discussion during lectures. The course is fair in regards to it's difficulty and as long as you put in the effort you will pass easily. Take good notes in lecture especially when talking about different songs and genres.

I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to take an easy but enjoyable GE. He gives you a study guides that have the exact short essay questions and songs you need to know. Just take notes on the themes and facts of each song and genre and you will get an A. There is a 1500 word paper and you have to go to 3 concerts and write short reports.