Within the subject of music history, there are many topics and sub-topics. For this reason, music history can be a very interesting and engaging topic to choose for your senior research project. For example, you could study the history of various styles of music, such as jazz, reggae, rock and roll or hip hop. You could also decide to research the history and development of different musical instruments such as the piano, guitar, or percussion equipment. Music has changed and evolved throughout history, with different artist’s influence. Therefore, you can choose to study the impact of influential artists in history, such as Johnny Cash, Tupac Shakur, The Beatles or Stevie Wonder.
If you choose to center your senior research project on the art of performance, be prepared to study many facets of performance, such as solos, ensembles, choreography, music videos, improvisation in performance, and lyrical performance. You may also get a chance to study various performers throughout history, as well as their impact on music and the performing arts. Be prepared to delve deep into the meaning of music as well as the meaning of musical performance.
Music theory is the technical more scientific side of music. In order to complete a senior research project on the topic of music theory, you must truly understand the technical aspects of music as it pertains to composition and arrangement. You could choose to study the development and birth of music theory, or whether or not having knowledge of music theory is essential to being a successful musician, as there are many self-taught musical geniuses throughout history.
Senior research projects in the field of music give way to an endless supply of topics. While theory, music history and performance are traditional topics, there are also many non-traditional research topics that can make for a successful project. Consider studying subject matter such as digital music, music around the world, music and the economy, music in times of war, the birth of music videos, music and the underground, as well as perceptions of music.