This course provides an issues-based approach to sonic arts in the Middle East. Issues to be considered include music and sound's symbolism in religious and secularist movements; music in twentieth century Middle Eastern nationalisms and current transnational identifications; repertoire and innovation in folk and art music; sung poetry; media, technology, and politics; populism and popular music; and discourses and experiences of tradition and modernity as reflected in and through engagement with sound. Emphasis will be placed on listening and analysis of sound as well as critical engagement with assigned texts.