This course focuses on the Catholic intellectual tradition and its profound dialogue with music. Students will explore genres in Catholic music such as the mass, requiem mass, oratorio, passion, and other biblically inspired works. Course content will focus on pieces of music that are inspired by sacred texts. With each work, students will engage with the meaning of the text and how the music exemplifies it. Through the study of music fundamentals, students will build frameworks for listening that increase understanding and transform the listening experience. Coursework will involve readings, exercises in listening, lecture, discussion posts, and short essays. Students will improve communication skills and contemplate how the course material impacts a life lived with purpose. Variable.