Music and Social Action: Exploring Art's Role in Society
Discover how artistic expression and musical movements influence social transformation while fostering democratic values and civic engagement.
Discover how artistic expression and musical movements influence social transformation while fostering democratic values and civic engagement.
Explore the powerful intersection of music, art, and social activism in this thought-provoking course from Yale University. Led by Sebastian Ruth, this course challenges you to consider the role of artists in society and how music can be a catalyst for positive change. You'll delve into philosophical perspectives on aesthetics and democracy, examine historical examples of socially engaged artists, and explore contemporary initiatives using art for urban renewal and social justice. From John Dewey's theories on art experiences to the cultural impact of the Civil Rights Movement, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of how artistic expression can shape public life and foster civil society. This course is ideal for musicians, artists, social activists, and anyone interested in the transformative power of the arts in addressing societal issues.
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What you'll learn
Understand key philosophical perspectives on art and its role in society
Analyze the relationship between artistic experiences and democratic engagement
Explore historical examples of artists and musicians as agents of social change
Examine the role of arts in urban renewal and community development
Investigate contemporary artistic initiatives addressing social issues
Analyze the connection between humanitarian work and artistic practice
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
2 Hours PreRecorded video
5 quizzes
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
FullTime access
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There are 9 modules in this course
This course explores the dynamic relationship between music, the arts, and social action. It begins by examining philosophical perspectives on art and aesthetics, focusing on the theories of John Dewey and Maxine Greene. The curriculum then delves into the role of arts in democracy and civil society, exploring how artistic experiences can foster engaged citizenship. Students will study historical examples of artists and musicians who used their work for social change, from the New Deal era to the Civil Rights Movement. The course also covers contemporary issues, including the use of arts in urban renewal projects and the role of 21st-century artists in addressing social issues. Through case studies, interviews with practicing artists, and analysis of various artistic initiatives, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how music and the arts can be powerful tools for social transformation. The course concludes by examining methods for creating social action through art, drawing on educational theories and concepts of servant leadership.
Welcome to Music and Social Action
Module 1 · 1 Hours to complete
What is Art and How Do We Experience It?
Module 2 · 3 Hours to complete
Democracy and the Arts, Part 1
Module 3 · 3 Hours to complete
Democracy and the Arts, Part II
Module 4 · 3 Hours to complete
20th Century Artists and Social Commitment
Module 6 · 3 Hours to complete
21st Century Artists and Social Commitment
Module 7 · 3 Hours to complete
Creating Social Action
Module 8 · 3 Hours to complete
Final Reflection
Module 9 · 25 Minutes to complete
Fee Structure
Payment options
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Instructor
Visiting Lecturer in Community Engagement
Sebastian Ruth is the Founder and Artistic Director of Community MusicWorks (CMW), a pioneering organization based in Providence, Rhode Island, that connects professional musicians with urban youth and families. CMW has been recognized as a "revolutionary organization" by The New Yorker for its innovative approach to building community through music education and performance, transforming the lives of children and families in underserved neighborhoods. The organization offers a comprehensive program that includes chamber music performances, a robust music education curriculum for over 125 young people, and various community engagement activities.In addition to his role at CMW, Ruth serves as a Visiting Lecturer at the Yale School of Music, where he teaches courses on the intersection of music and social action. He graduated from Brown University in 1997, where he was influenced by prominent education scholars. Ruth's work has earned him numerous accolades, including a MacArthur Foundation Fellowship for his contributions to socially engaged music making. He is also involved with advisory boards for organizations such as the Sphinx Organization and Music Haven, furthering his commitment to community-focused music initiatives
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