An exploration of the music and culture of Western civilization from ancient times to the Renaissance. Students will study both the sacred and secular music of the medieval and renaissance periods, including (but not limited to) Gregorian chant, Troubadour songs, Madrigals, Motets, Masses, and instrumental music. Each musical genre will be examined on the basis of its intrinsic characteristics as well as in connection with the aesthetic, social, philosophical, political, and economic environment in which it was created. Students will be expected to have a basic understanding of standard musical notation.