This document outlines the guidelines for a final project that will constitute 25% of the student's final grade. Students must choose a topic related to music, research it extensively through credible sources, and present their findings through an approved medium such as a documentary, concert, paper, or website. The project is intended to demonstrate a sustained, in-depth exploration of the topic. Students are encouraged to consult the instructor throughout the semester for feedback and guidance.

1. Final Project Guidelines
Due: Last day of Finals
This project will constitute 25% of your final grade. You must choose a topic and research the subject
material extensively, citing your sources. You must also choose a medium for this information to be delivered.
I encourage you to send me your progress, in whatever stage it may be in, throughout the semester for
feedback. Part of your grade will require a sustained and thorough draft, and choosing your topic early will
let you begin aggregating sources in time to support your ideas.
*The music of a country discussed in this semester
*The music of a country NOT discussed this semester.
*Choose a traditional music of a nation, composer, or a piece of music covered in this semester and expand
on their biography or art.
*Trace the course of Innovation in the music of a nation.
*Trace the course of Preservation in the music of a diaspora community to its host country.
*Technology – how it has changed a musical tradition
*Anything else you propose that your instructor approves
Materialization, or Expression
The final expression of your research is subsequent to the research itself. However, the method you choose
to convey what you have learned has to be able to offer a demonstration of the depth of your research. I
have experienced a lot of success with making the format of the presentation part of the student’s choice.
This is up to you, but you need to choose a medium that allows you to demonstrate your learning sufficiently.
If you choose the medium of bumper sticker, we will both have a laugh, but you cannot possibly earn a
successful grade. Here are some examples of acceptable mediums:
Documentary
Concert performance
Paper
Website
Musical instrument
Speech
Software
Composition
FrequentlyAsked Questions:

2. “How long?”
25% of your grade should represent a dedicated and sustained effort. There is no length requirement, but
check in throughout the semester with updates so that we can both be on the same page.
“How do I start?”
The first thing you need to do is choose a topic. That sounds simpler than it is. I assume that you probably
aren’t familiar with many of the concepts on the list – we'll be covering them this semester! To begin, you
might try googling some names to get some basic information (eg., dates, famous compositions, etc…). You
might also listen to samples online. In other words, choose something you like – You will enjoy the
experience of writing this topic if you enjoy the subject. Next, refine your choice to give it direction. Perhaps
something controversial that you can take a stand on, or a reinterpretation of widely accepted history.
The Chicago area is replete with performance groups that will be more than happy to help you – check also
with the consulate of the country you are interested in.
“What do I write?”
As you will find in researching sources, there are many to choose from! You should try to avoid painting with
a broad brush, but instead try to write about something specific. However, if a narrow focus results in a
project that isn't substantive, you need to broaden the scope.
“Where do I go?”
Remember, any valid statement is backed up by multiple reliable sources. “Reliable” is an important concept.
As with all writing assignments in this class, students may not cite websites like Wikipedia; however,
Wikipedia is an excellent source for finding links to other sources which are reliable. Although the internet will
be extremely helpful, I also encourage you to investigate other sources including reference materials
available in the library (be sure to look at the New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians – we have a
volume in the library and Department of Music!).
https://books.google.com/
https://scholar.google.com/
“What have I gotten myself into?”
You may feel a bit overwhelmed by this project. Don’t let it get you down. Remember that this is supposed to
be fun, and more important, I am here to help you. I strongly encourage you to contact me with any questions
you have and I’m happy to meet with you online via Skype, Blackboard, or simply by email. If you get
frustrated, the very worst thing you can do is to not speak with me. The term paper is a great deal of work,
but it is also very rewarding.