This course takes Russian and Russophone music out of its usual frames and asks what happens when we listen through the lenses of gender, sexuality, and power. Using methodologies of queer studies and queer theory, we consider how music both reflects and reshapes ideas of "Russianness." From imperial ballet to Soviet pop, from Tchaikovsky to contemporary queer artists in media, the course highlights intersections of music, identity, and politics. Special attention is given to the 2000s wave of Ukrainian musicians (Ivan Dorn, 5'nizza, and others) whose presence redefined the sound and style of Russian pop music in the 21st century. Students develop tools for critical listening, music analysis, and cultural interpretation while engaging broader debates about identity, politics, and belonging in today's Russian cultural sphere. |