Guidelines for Research Papers
World Music – Fall 2017
Due Tuesday Nov. 21st
General
One of the most valuable aspects of the study of world music is the development of research methods through critical readings and scholarly writing. You will be asked to select and research a musical topic of your own choosing.
A paper of at least six full written pages (double spaced and not including title page or bibliography). You do not have to use a title page. You do have to include a bibliography (does not need to be annotated). This option is paper only; no presentation.
Selecting a Topic
-Select a region or culture within a country.
-Your topic needs to include more than one artist (could be from different eras), the material culture, education, and any applicable extra-musical media such as dance, poetry, or visual art.
*Topics cannot include the USA, Canada, Britain, Jamaica.
Paper Outline and Bibliography –
I highly recommend an outline and preliminary bibliography as the first steps in your paper process. If you cannot find sources in a language that you understand you will need to pick a new topic. It is better for everyone if you make this realization as soon as possible. Please be in communication if you have any questions along these lines.
Rough Draft –
This step is not required, and not graded. However, I highly recommend submitting a rough draft to the writing center well in advance of the due date. Also, please proofread and make all of your friends help you proof read.
Final Paper
The final paper will meet the length requirements of your chosen option above (not including the title page or bibliography).
Your final paper needs to include musical examples. The text about your musical example needs an artist, composer, title. Analysis of examples should include why the example was chosen, what points from the paper are demonstrated, and any other pertinent facts.
A bibliography/works cited page must be included.
I am okay with whichever style format you prefer, as long as you use one. (MLA, Chicago, ALA…)
There is no need to turn in an actual recording with your paper; just list the recordings that you use in your bibliography.
I will be happy discuss your research project with you at any phase, from selecting a topic to final draft. Please send me questions via email.
Class Presentation
Everyone presenting as part of option 2 must be ready to present on Tuesday Nov. 28. Being unprepared when called upon will result in a zero for this portion of the grade. Presentations will be approximately 5 minutes in length. They must include some manner of visual aid and musical examples. You are welcome to use YouTube, a flash drive, or email yourself. (you can also bring in a presentation that is not on the computer.)