20740056 - Research laboratory on the sources of the history of music and dance

The course examines the foundations of musical communication, with particular focus on the structural elements of musical language and their role in the processes of meaning construction and transmission. It also addresses both theoretical and applied aspects of musical communication in relation to various social, cultural, and media contexts.
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Programme

The course offers a systematic reflection on tangible and intangible cultural heritage, with a specific focus on sources related to the history of music and dance. It will cover the main types of sources in the musical and choreographic fields, including written sources (scores, treatises, librettos), oral traditions, iconographic materials, audiovisual documents, as well as other relevant materials such as instruments, stage objects, and costumes. Special attention will be devoted to the institutions where these sources are preserved and made accessible—such as archives, libraries, museums, documentation centres, and digital platforms—in order to provide students with the tools for effective research, consultation, and description.
The initial phase of the course will focus on the evolution of musical and dance sources, examining their origins, major developments, and the transformations in their use and interpretation over time. Theoretical instruction will be complemented by the analysis of critical texts, musical scores, and choreographic studies, aiming to explore the mutual influences between music, dance, and culture.
A central role will be played by practical workshops, offering students the opportunity to apply the acquired knowledge through hands-on activities. Research projects will be conducted using primary and secondary sources, with the possibility of undertaking practical analyses of musical works and choreographic pieces.
Finally, collective discussions and project presentations are planned, with the objective of preparing students to operate in academic and professional settings. These activities will address the challenges and opportunities offered by the fields of music and dance history, with particular emphasis on their interaction with cultural heritage and its sources.


Core Documentation

A selection of essays will be provided by the instructor during the course.

Attendance

Attendance is mandatory, with a maximum of three absences allowed.

Type of evaluation

During the laboratory, students will present original projects that integrate the critical study of music and dance, demonstrating creativity, the ability to apply theoretical knowledge, and effective collaboration. Assessment will consider the quality of the project, its originality, and the depth of critical analysis.