University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: The module is restricted to students on the MLitt in Sacred Music, except with the permission of the module coordinator.

Planned timetable: 2.00 pm - 5.00 pm Tue

This module focuses on the history and development of sacred music-making in a variety of confessional traditions informed by Western musical practice. Students explore when, where, and why Christians have made music in their worship. In doing so, they consider how this music was shaped, for example, by its liturgical context; by the geographical location of worship; by local and global patronage; by the development of instrumental and other technologies; and by the political and social life of wider society. Students engage critically with important works of sacred music, and consider the relationship between these and wider Western art and culture, both historically and in the present day. In considering different Christian denominations and worship styles, students explore the changing historical role of the church musician, and reflect upon what it means to be a church musician today.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 lecture (11 weeks), 2 seminar (11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 275

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr T A Wilkinson
Module teaching staff: Dr Tom Wilkinson, Dr Michael Ferguson, Dr Jane Pettegree, Dr Michael Downes