Ever wonder about the development of reggae or reggaeton? The roots of salsa dance music? The origins of hip hop? MU 014 Music of Latin America and the Caribbean will explore these questions and more. A general introduction to the music, culture, and history of Latin America and the Caribbean from the pre-conquest to the present, this course satisfies the D2 as well as a Fine Arts requirement. Basic ethnomusicological theory will aid in the recognition and appreciation of the cultural, historical, and political dynamics underlying different musical practices. Some of the many genres explored: Mexican son and mariachi; Cuban rumba and popular dance music; reggae and reggaeton; Brazilian samba, capoeira, funk, and forró; milonga, tango and rock nacional from Argentina; Haitian vodun and kompa; calypso and chutney soca from Trinidad; Colombian cumbia and Andean huayno; sacred classical music and much more.

A series of readings, recorded lectures and music videos, on-line quizzes and interactive exercises will be completed each week.

On-line quizzes which can be repeated for a higher grade, and several short assignments. No midterm or final exam.