Actually, his name is Jonathan Gibson. He's an excellent professor who knows the material very well and makes class interesting. Taking his Music in General Culture class got me interested in all kinds of music from the Renaissance to the present day.

GMUS200 - take notes, they are on the exam, listenings... on exams. If you are just trying to get through this class, he's not so hard that you will fail trying. You will know in advance what is on tests. Big class generally, so not many grades total

If you study notes you'll do fine. Big class no attendance policy. Few quizzes that will help boost your grade, don't miss the quizzes. Optional final exam (it's cumulative)

Knows his stuff, loves to teach. Great guy, classes are HUGE, so don't expect him to know your name. Take notes in class and do the listenings and you will be ok.

no attendance, but go to class and take good notes..tests are straight from the notes..you have to be able to identify the music pieces, but it's not hard and i really enjoyed most of the music we had to listen to, def take him

Awesome class. Occasionally boring but easy to follow and take notes. Notes are important as the tests come right from them. He's very approachable and will work with you on things if you need. Take him if you have the opportunity.

Great class whether you know a lot or little about music.Highly recommend as gened.few quizzes(easy),tests(mult choice and listening).Go to class,get notes,no pwrpt slides on blkboard.knowledgeable about music,composers. gives little facts about composers,wide range of music.Great prof=Tom Green

Gibson is a great teacher. Knows his material very well. An easy A if you go everyday and you do not have to read the book, just keep up on the music listenings. Teaches so you understand and retain the information he is teaching.

really cool guy, passionate about music. makes you laugh, looks like Tom Green :-) try to get his class

This guy is awesome. He gives a reading assignment and a listening assignment every class, but you don't have to read. He goes over what you "read" in class. Keep up with the listening and you'll do great. I definitely recommend him! :)

He really is passionate about this class.This class was hard for me b/c I only did the listenings at last min before a quiz or test.Fell asleep during some classes b/c I got stuck w/evening class.Even though I received a bad grade,I still have high respect for this tom green look-a-like professor.If music interests you,prepare to be interested.

IF YOU CAN TAKE THIS GUY, DO IT!!! He is incredible. He knows his music and is a wonderful teacher and really helps to make it interesting for everyone. AWESOME TEACHER! Very nice guy!

if you have the chance to take him for a gened, do it! amazing for my music major history course. made the difficult material so accessible.

Professor Gibson was an amazing music teacher. He makes the class really interesting and he only gives 3 tests and a quiz here or there. Homework is to listen to music which wasn't bad. If you're interested in music this class is really easy and really interesting!!

Interesting class if you like music. His tests are mildly hard, quizes are easier. Study notes and listen to the music and you'll do fine. He also looks like Tom Green which is entertaining.

He is one of the best professors I've had so far at JMU. He is incredibly easy to understand and is very passionate about music. Very knowledgable and has a great personality which makes class interesting. Also, his tests are very straight-forward. Overall, he's a really good guy and wants you to learn. TAKE HIM IF YOU CAN!

Great teacher. He explains things well. VERY straight forward about assignments. Tells you what will be on quizzes and test. Drops lowest quiz. NO FINAL EXAM! Do the homework and easy A/B. He makes it interesting as well. Take him

the kid below me has no idea what he's talking about. Dr. Gibson is tremendous. If you have any appreciation for music then this is the class for you. He is passionate and gets you really interested in his teachings. I started to love the listening cd's. Just be aware, you have to take good notes and listen to the cds. Overall he was fantastic.

Great teacher! He is very helpful & knows alot about music. Sometimes the classes can be boring but he keeps them interesting. Just make sure you listen to the CDs. Very approachable & willing to help you! Take him!

I love this man! I want to be Dr. Gibson when I grow up. His exams are very fair and cover the exact material covered in class. If you go to class, you will not fail. And the listening examples are really not that bad.

BEST TEACHER! I loved his class, he's a very down to earh guy. I scored poorly on my first exam and went to him for extra help and he went over the entire test with me and taught me how to prepare for the rest of the semester. Funny stories, very smart.. GREAT CLASS TAKE IT!!!

Gibson is honestly one of my favorite professors at JMU. I am not a musically inclined person and in the beginning it was hard to get my ear to hear certain parts of the music. However Gibson is VERY clear on the material and makes it enjoyable to come to class with fun and interesting facts about the composers and the works.

Real cool teacher, offers lots of help and I enjoyed class. Test are really hard though and only 3 determine your grade so you do bad on those and you are finished (like I was). If you normally do well on test then take him, you probably won't find a nicer teacher. I just always hate M.C. tests.

GREAT GREAT GREAT professor, interesting and fair-highly reccommended

Great professor, very easy to understand, and the text is very helpful if you bother to read it like I did. The tests are pretty easy if you study. I got scores in the 90s on all of them and music is not my strongest subject by far. Take this class if you can. Great gen ed.

I'm a music person, but not a music major. This class was fantastic. Dr. Gibson understands how to teach the subject to people who aren't necessarily versed in music theory. Take him. Do it now. He's funny and extremely helpful. Absolutely no downside to taking him.

J'adore Gibson!

Gibson is awesome, i strongly recomend taking him if you need a music class. Tests and quizzes are easy. He's a great guy who made it a fun class. I had no previous music experience, got a A. You will have to study and go to class, but its really not that bad. He also looks a lot like Tom Green which i thought was pretty funny. Take Him!

Without him this class would be extremely boring but he gives very interesting insight and has made me want to go to class. Very nice guy and has his funny moments. Quizzes and tests aren't hard if you just study briefly.

Gibson is a great teacher. He makes the class interesting and really relates it to students. Instead of just going through lectures he incorporates music, paintings, and movies so that we can better understand the material. Ive learned a lot from the class, and he makes it intersting. As long as you take notes you'll do fine.

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Gibson is so cool! There's no attendance policy but the more you go to class the better you do on your tests...they aren't super hard but they aren't super hard, either. He is very helpful on any questions you might have about music pertaining to other classes as well, and is totally enthusiastic about his subject! Take him--he's awesome!

Way too hard to get a B for a GENERAL music class. Nice guy but if you are looking for and easy music class, I would look elsewhere.

Dr.Gibson is the man. he's rather great teacher than easy grader. I got B- but it was def. worth it. If you actually want to learn music instead of just getting an A without getting any knowledge, take this guy! but if ur not a music person and just needs to get the cluster done, take someone else.

Good teacher, good communicator, obviously enjoys teaching, but it was a pretty hard class. No attendance policy was nice, but I skipped more often than I should so I'm sure that hurt my grade. Still, if you're willing to devote a little bit of time to just listening to the assigned music, you should do fine.

this class started out really annoying. the listening quizzes are hard until you get familiar with them. he clearly tells you what's on the tests (there's 4). if you take down the notes he puts up & study them then you'll be fine. memorizing the music is the more difficult thing in the class, but you'll get the hang of it.

If you go to class you will get an A because his test are basically the poweropints her goes over in class, so the tests are easy.

Heck of a guy. I could have cared less about music at the beginning of this class, but Ole Gibby really made the subject interesting. He's really helpful, and as long as you show up to class, YOU'RE GOLDEN--guaranteed B or A!

Dr. Gibson is just a great teacher. He knows his stuff well and has a great sense of humor. Tests are straightforward, quizzes are straight from the reading. I would recommend this class, but i would also recommend this teacher.

awesome guy & really loves what he does. 4 tests that come straight from class notes/vocab, so its ur advantage to go to every class. listening quizzes at the beginning are tricky, but u'll get used to them. the vocab quizzes before tests are good practice and help a lot. if you go to class and take good notes, you should be fine. great teacher!

He is an AWESOME teacher! I loved this class, he makes it so interesting. The tests are SUPER easy, come straight from the notes. Easy A in this class, but you have to go to class everyday!

Awesome teacher! you are lucky if you get him I have some but not a lot of musical background and I learned SO much from him but the tests were easy dont worry if you showed up for class and took notes, he hardly uses the textbook, but def get the cds

Awesome guy! No textbook, no cds like other teachers. Everything is on blackboard so it saves a lot of money! Tests can be harder if you don't study. Easy quizzes sometimes and he drops the lowest one. Definitely take his class. I had no interest in the subject, but the class is actually very interesting!

JGibs is the man. He is passionate about the subject and has a dry sense of humor that makes the class interesting. He claims to not know how to play the piano, but hes a ****ing boss at every instrument ever created. You are lucky to be in this class. Just study and be enthralled by the music he puts up on blackboard.

Gibson was a great prof. Although this wasn't an easy A, hes the type of professor that you can really enjoy and get a lot out of. Highly recommended

I admit I have a crush on him. He's really easy-going and knows so much about music, which makes the class worthwhile. GREAT music and there is no textbook which is a plus. Just go to class everyday and take notes. He knows his stuff. He's very friendly so stop by during his office hours!

1. No textbook = saves money. 2. Sarcastic/funny teacher 3. Just study and you will be ace 4. He's very helpful if you see him in office hours 5. He knows and is interested in what he's talking about 6. Yeah, he's pretty cute 7. Take his course!!

Amazing professor. You will be lucky to get into this class. Expect to learn a lot.

no textbook and all your listenings are online and he is a great guy. gmus can get boring but Gibson keeps me awake in the morning. a really funny guy and great teacher

I LOVE GIBSON! He is the best professor ever. He's funny, interesting, and the class is NEVER boring. He makes this class so awesome, that you will never want to skip it even though attendance isn't mandatory!!

I LOVE GIBSON! He is the most amazing prof ever! He gives you study guides before tests and the only homework is to listen to music! Yeah it's all classical but he makes it interesting and fun! Even though attendance is not mandatory, you won't want to miss this class. When I first got my schedule I was not looking forward to GMUS, NOW I LOVE IT!

This dude was awesome. His classes kept me awake in the mornings and he made it really interesting and entertaining. He's a relatively young professor and his sense of humor is pretty funny. You won't want to miss this class. His tests aren't easy but definitely passable. Just go to class, listen to the music and know the terms. Get this Prof!!!

Dr. Gibson is a GREAT professor. ALOT of material to learn, and you may think its easy but his tests are damn hard. I ended up with a 79.3 in the class and he wouldn't give me the .7 of a point to get a B. A cool dude and def keeps lectures interesting. If you want to learn take him, if just to get an A, dont.

Ok a few things. No required textbook, no final exam, and no attendance policy. Great guy and taught the class based on ppt lectures. If you go the classes, you will do well. Simple. Just study the terms he gives you and you will be fine. I did just enough to get by and got a B but I could've easily gotten an A. Highly recommend John Gibson!

Great guy! Really interested in music and makes class really interesting. He's really funny and really straightforward about things. The tests are somewhat difficult. No attendance policy but you should go to class because he tells you exactly what you need to know for the test and he gives you a list of things you need to know before the test.

GREAT TEACHER! the test can be difficult but if you go to class you will be prepared he also provides you with a study guide for the tests. He is very helpful and makes class interesting and he is so funny.He is very passionate about what he teaches and makes it so that everyone can understand the material even if your not a music person

I love going to this class, surprisingly! Gibson makes lectures fun and interesting. There's no textbook which is nice. A lot of blackboard assignments and tests and quizzes are cake if you study.

BEST PROFESSOR!! I had no interest in music prior to this class but he makes the lectures interesting and relatable. There is no text book and no cumulative final! Attendance is not mandatory but class notes are the only form of information. It also helps that professor Gibson is extremely passionate about music and constantly reminds you of that

Originally took just just for GenEd, but really enjoyed the class. If you attend class and actually listen to the songs you will be fine. Very knowledgeable and you can tell he really enjoys his work.

Professor Gibson is an awesome dude. He actually makes this course, which could have put me to sleep, interesting and fun to learn. His passion for what he teaches you wont find anywhere else. Take him for your fine arts gen-ed! You wont regret it!

Great class. Can be a bit dull at times (classical music tends to do that) but not a bad class at all. Very little work, tests aren't too bad (heavy on listening), and no textbook. I ave a music background so it was an easy A, but even non-musicians can get by just fine, it's not heavy on musical knowledge. Great guy, don't hesitate to take him

No textbook, attendance is not mandatory...but go to every class. It is fun, he is great, you learn A LOT and he is so good at teaching this course. You will appreciate music more in general and feel smarter ha. Tests can be tricky but study and you will do well. Quizzes have max 8 questions. He is perfeccct!!!

Gibson is a great professor. He cares about his students and is very helpful. The honors section of this class was a little rough, but the project at the end was graded fairly easily and I ended up with an A-.

He is very nice and really knows music. I didn't care at all about classical music, just needed this for GenEd, but he made the class really interesting. We did discussions on Blackboard and in class, which was easy. The tests are also pretty easy as long as you take good notes.

Awesome professor. Reallllly passionate about what he teaches. Take him!!!

I couldn't care at all about classical music before I took this class. Now I listen to it while I study all the time. He doesn't require a textbook, but you have to go to class to get all of the notes. Tests are hard if you don't study. There's a listening portion that gets complicated. I love this class, although I have a C. He's so passionate!

I had no interest in classical music before i took this class but this class kind of rocked my world because you see how this music influences the music today.the test are ok just study a little. Also the he is really cool and funny, sometimes the music puts you to sleep but it still my favorite class!!!!!!

Great teacher overall nice guy and really wants you to do well

MY FAVORITE PROFESSOR. He is awesome- so funny and so passionate about what he does. Makes you really appreciate the music you listen to. Go to class for notes, study for tests. You'll get an A or B. TAKE HIM!!!!!

I took him for GMUS 200 and can't stop talking about how amazing it is. I haven't had a more passionate teacher at JMU, his enthusiasm makes the class fly by

I feel people are all music majors here. his class is very difficult for a GEN-ED. lots of effort needs to be put it to do well. take art or something. but, he is amazing, and really knows a lot about the subject

This is one of th best GEN-EDs I have ever taken. Gibson is so passionate about what he does and it shows. It helps make the class fun and interesting. This was the one class I never missed - I always looked forward to going! Listening sections can be difficult on tests, but they are manageable if you begin reviewing works days in advance!

I had no interest at all in a music course, but he keeps things interesting and is very knowledgeable in the subject. He makes himself available for office hours as well as communicating via email. Definitely recommend him for GMUS 200

Good professor; better than other music history professors

Only take this class if you're a music major. I'm a pre-med student, nearly straight A's, and I had to drop this class half-way through due to his RIDICULOUS tests. Almost everyone I know either failed or dropped it, however he is an overall nice guy. Take at your own risk, you've been warned.

He is very knowledgeable and passionate about what he teaches. I think he tried his hardest to make class interesting. Assignments for homework every night, usually take about 30 mins or so, not bad. No textbook. His tests are probably too hard for a gen-ed, but I studied an average amount and go a B in the class. I would recommend for the cluster.

one of my favorite teachers from last semester. You don't have to buy CDs or a textbook like other GMUS teachers require and he tells you everything you need to know while being funny and entertaining. Super nice guy, take him if you can

You have to attend class and take rigorous notes, he's kind of interesting to listen to, but the homework assignments are tiresome and monotonous. All in all, I worked way too hard in this class to only get a B, His tests are hard and there is so much material on it. If you can just take music in america for your gen ed requirement

He's a pretty good professor. Just know that when the course says "Music in General Culture", that does NOT mean popular music, jazz, rock and roll or anything like that. It's more like music history, covering Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern. So it was more boring than I expected, but a good class for what it was.

I lovvveee Dr. Gibson. The class itself is extremely hard and the material must be covered quickly but he does a great job teaching. Lectures are really interesting for 8am, and he is brilliant. Tests are incredibly difficult so you need to study a LOT. Not an easy A, but you will definitely learn a lot.

I love Mr.Gibson! He is a great guy. He is straight forward with what you need to know. The homework isn't overbearing. He doesn't use a textbook which is nice, but makes you go to class even though attendance is not required. The tests aren't horrible, but you have to study. He doesn't require you go to concerts. He is also very funny!

Very nice and very passionate about the subject. No textbook so the exams are based entirely off the lectures, meaning you must go to class. The hardest part is being able to identify a piece of music by listening to it on the exam. Overall pretty good for the cluster

He is an awesome teacher! Workload is not much, just a reflection before class. As long as you attend class and take notes, you will not have a problem at all and will love going to his class. No textbook required as well!

Love Gibson! Definitely my top favorite teachers at JMU. Awesome, awesome teacher. Understands that students have a lot to do. Not easy, but so passionate about what he teaches and so helpful!

BEST PROFESSOR EVER!! Take Gibson! Really enthusiastic about the topic. No textbook required for his class (only his class). In class quizzes sometimes. Weekly online assignment. Some people on rate my prof said they found what he was saying boring, but that is the topic, not the professor. If you are going to take GMUS, take Gibson!!!!!!!!!

Dr. Gibson is a really nice guy who makes the material clear and understandable. He tells you what to know and study for the exams and is very passionate about his stuff. The tests were ok, if you put effort in you can get an A or B but you MUST study because he plays music and asks specific questions for different pieces and composers.

Prof. Gibson is all around AMAZING! If you want a professor that really knows what they're talking about, take him! I learned so much from just a gen ed level class! Although attendance isn't taken, you do have to go to class to really learn the material. Just go and take notes and you'll be fine. He's such a good teacher you'll learn easily!

I've learned so much from this class that I wasn't expecting. There is no textbook, but there are online listening and discussions that are due before each class (they aren't very time consuming). The tests are somewhat difficult, but if you go to class and take good notes you'll be fine.

Professor Gibson made GMUS 200 my favorite class this semester. He's really passionate about the material. Attendance isn't mandatory, but you should go to class because you need to take good notes to do well on the tests. Homework is assigned each class, but it'll take max 30 minutes. Take his class!!

This has been my favorite class I have taken at JMU yet. Dr. Gibson makes this class so interesting I looked forward to going. There is no text book, just online listening homework assignments but they are not bad at all. His tests are a little challenging but if you study what he talks about in class you will get an A no problem. TAKE HIM!

Gibson is an awesome professor. Grading consists of quizzes (that he purposely makes easy so you can get an easy 100), online listening responses twice a week that rarely take 30 min, and 3 tests. As long as you take really good notes during class and study 1-2 hours the day before, you should ace the tests. SERIOUSLY TAKE HIM

Dr. Gibson loves teaching this history course. Appreciates class being involved, asking about any possible points of confusion. Grade based on reading and listening quizzes and 3 tests (3 midterms and a final; lowest grade dropped, so the final is optional). Open to suggestions. This was a great class!

Study for every all 3 test because these determine your grade. For the last test I studied for 5 hours and still got a 70. Make sure to pay attention in class and take good notes because if you miss something it will be really hard to study since there is no book. This class really made me enjoy music more but will hurt my gpa. Take gart instead

No clue how people think the tests are hard. If you pay attention in class and do the (easy) homework, the tests should be the easiest things ever. Never got below a 90 on anything in the class. He makes it so easy for students who have no experience with music. If you have no interest in music, take something else. HIGHLY recommend this prof!

This class was not very challenging for me, but his tests were difficult. Two homework assignments are due every week but they are never hard and they don't take too long. Quizzes were always easy. Lecture may be long but make sure you pay attention. No concert requirements and no textbook! Best professor for this class.

He is amazing! I loved the way he taught. You must take very good notes, study, and do the homework to pass the tests. I thought his class was super easy, but that's because I found the topic very intriguing. There aren't any textbooks for the class, so you only study the notes you take. He is so kind and I wish he taught all of my classes!

Gibson is a nice professor who tries to make music history seems exciting to varying effect. You will be given two assignments to do a week, both of which you will be given a few days in advance to complete. The assignments aren't difficult. Attendance isn't mandatory, but you NEED to show up every day. I missed one day and I was lost for a bit.

I liked his lectures. Dr. Gibson's an interesting guy and it's clear he's very passionate about music. He really likes teaching this class. There's no textbook. Just go to class and if you miss make sure you get the notes. There are easy online listening assignments for every class. Overall he's really good!

I liked his lectures. Dr. Gibson's an interesting guy and it's clear he's very passionate about music. He really likes teaching this class. There's no textbook. Just go to class and if you miss make sure you get the notes. There are easy online listening assignments for every class. There are a few short quizzes on terms. Overall he's really good!

He knows his stuff and will help you if you ask for it. Homework consisted of listening to music pieces and reacting to it. Fairly easy but still need to review notes. no textbook.

Gibson is the man. He's super chill and loves what he teaches. His lectures can sometimes be dry, but he tries to make them as interesting as possible. His love for music is amazing and made me appreciate music more.

Lectures are pretty boring but if you pay attention and take notes you'll do fine.

Easy gen-ed. Hardly any work and quizzes are online and 5 questions (super easy). Take this class!! Also there's no textbook:)

Great for a gen-ed. You do have to study for the tests and since theres no textbook you can't miss class or you miss a lot of notes. Really passionate and easy to listen to! No one likes geneds but this class was enjoyable and you can get a good grade with minimal effort.

I love this man. His class is amazing and I have an A in it. He is so passionate about music and it really truly is great to see someone like that. He knows what he is talking about and I would take him over and over again if I could.

I loved this course! No textbook, no concert requirement and no cumulative final. Basically, if you show up, take really good notes, and study you'll do fine. I know people failing but they barely study. Homework is very minimal and quizzes are grade boosters. Studied one day before each test and got a B on all of them. Seriously loved this class.

I loved his class! He covers the material in a way that makes it fresh and interesting! Coming from a musical background I realized how much I hadn't learned about music. Great professor!

Awesome teacher and clear lectures, tells you what is on tests and gives study guides Lectures are fun and entertaining If you don't like orchestral or "classical" music DO NOT take You won't enjoy this class if you hate listening to, mostly, instrumental music Overall amazing class, one of my favorites would definitely take again No textbook

Gibson is the best!! Definitely my favorite professor/class I've taken. He makes the material very refreshing and interesting and is very clear about everything. You have homework for every class but it's only short reflections on a piece or two you'll have to listen to every couple of nights! Quizzes & tests not bad if you study! Would take again!

Dr. Gibson is an amazing professor. He's really passionate about music and the lectures were entertaining. He really cares about his students, & he wants to get to know all of his students, even though it's a big lecture class. If you need help, don't hesitate to go to office hours because he wants to help & see you succeed. Great man, great class.

Professor Gibson is awesome. His lectures are really cool, and his homework is very easy and allows for a lot of points to boost test scores. Lectures always run the full time, so be prepared to write a lot. He is funny and very helpful. This is one of the few professors that doesn't require you to attend shows or performances. Definitely take.

Professor Gibson makes this class really interesting; what he decides to share really adds to the feel of the class. There is no attendance policy but I'd imagine it would be hard to do well on his tests if you skipped or did not take thorough notes. The tests have very specific questions but are not too difficult-3 total, non cumulative

Jon is such a cool guy! He immediately established a fun and interactive type learning environment in class. He is easily approachable and personable! We listened to some of the coolest music in this class. He works hard to connect with his students. 3 exams, non-cumulative: Fairly difficult and specific. Overall, great class even better professor.

Gibson is great! He's open from the start, and funny. He's easy to follow and likable. PowerPoints have the bare minimum, so be sure to go to class and take the notes. Each class there is a listening assignment due, and if you miss one it can really hurt your grade so make sure you watch out for those! 3 difficult tests, none are cumulative. Study!

I dreaded having to take a music class. If you need an easy gen ed, this is the perfect professor. You have to take good notes to do good on the tests though. He's really funny but music in general is boring to me. Learned a lot though

Dr. Gibson is AMAZING. He is so educated on his topic, and it is made evident throughout his lectures. Honestly he's a genius, but I'm not. This class is extremely difficult. As long as you do the work as it comes, rather than all the night before the test, you'll be fine.

Makes class fun.

This guy is a legend

Do the homework every time and you will definitely pass. To do really well, you have to write down every word he says in class (no ppts) and actually know it for the tests. He loves what he does and most students like him as a person.

Great guy who really did try and make a boring class enjoyable. Make sure to do all the assignments online and you'll get a good grade. If you want anything better, write every word he says in his lectures and study them over and over because tests were difficult and make up the bulk of the grade.

he makes a GenEd class so interesting and not too difficult. There are only 3 exams that are non-cumulative, a couple of easy short quizzes to check for the classes understanding. Although attendance is not required, all your notes come from his lectures so if you go to class you should pass with an A with no problem.

Overall, the class wasn't too bad. I personally did not enjoy the subject material, so it was not the best for me. But that is not the fault of Gibson, he tried his best. The tests are pretty difficult, but should be manageable if you pay attention in class. Wasn't my cup of tea, but Gibson himself was pretty solid.

Gibson is a good professor. Gibson is passionate and knowledgeable. This class is fairly easy if you go to class and put minimal effort into the assignments. Homework is listening to music. Tests are online and can be hard if you didnt put the time in. Must study to do well, cannot rely on outside knowledge.

Gibson is a great professor. He has a great sense of humor & is an amazing lecturer. Music is definitely not my calling, but Gibson makes the class enjoyable. The HW is really easy but go to class!!! It may not be mandatory but you won't do well on tests if you do not go. The tests can be tricky but taking good notes is the key to do well!

Jon is the definition of The Man!!! He cares a ton about his students, he's really nice and he makes lectures really interesting, and he's super passionate about music. Go to the lectures/pay attention (because that's where you'll get the material - there's no textbook) and listen to the music and you'll be fine.

Music, especially Classical, isn't my thing, so I was hesitant about this class. Prof Gibson was amazing and made this my favorite class of the semester. He incorporates lots of videos and pictures in the lectures so that it's more than just the music. Homework is only listening to music and sometimes writing reflections with 3 non-cumulative tests

Quizzes are easy, tests are much harder. No textbook, so everything comes from his lectures. He is a nice dude who knows the material but he will NOT curve your grade or touch it whatsoever at the end of the year no matter how close. Kinda blows but he is a good professor overall.

Dr. Gibson is such a gem of a man. He's extremely funny and makes the class interesting even when the topics are a little tired and boring. There is also no textbook and the homework is to listen to music. Also, taking this class exposed me to a lot of music I would never have listened to, but I love. This class and prof really opened my eyes.

If you have the chance to take professor Gibson, do it! Class is 95% lecture based: show up and take notes (doesn't post slides). Only homework is listening to select music and minimal reading. Very down to earth, pretty funny guy that makes a not-so-interesting topic for a non-music major interesting. One of my favorite professors I've had at JMU.

Professor Gibson's lectures may come across as dull at first, but over time they become interesting and his sense of humor is great. He chooses content based on what he thinks is important about particular eras and genres, which I liked. Plus the work isn't too hard, only discussion posts and a few quizzes, and three exams. Great gen ed choice.

Gibson is one of my favorite professors I've ever had. He knows a lot of people are there for gen eds and he wants you to pass. Although, his class is 70% tests and they are NOT EASY! do EVERYTHING he says when he says to do them, also he does no powerpoint uploading so you have to go. take tons of notes! Hate the class but adore him.

I love Dr. Gibson! He is so funny and chill and has great, interesting lectures. He is the only MUS200 teacher who doesn't require outside concerts. He also doesn't have a required textbook so there is not much homework or reading, and he teaches basically whatever he wants and is passionate about. I look forward to his class every day.

This class is very easy, there is only one assignment each week with open note quizzes every once in a while. The tests are a little more difficult and there are only three. The tests are more difficult because of the listening parts that are hard to study for. Professor Gibson is very nice and usually cracks jokes.

Dr. Gibson really made a gen ed class one of my favorite classes to go to. His lectures are so interesting because he is so passionate about what he does. There are discussion posts every week but are very simple. Around 3 or 4 open note quizzes, and three exams. Exams are a bit tough but as long as you take notes and study you'll be fine.

I highly recommend everyone to take Mus 200 with Jon Gibson! The material can be a bit difficult to enjoy but it gets better throughout the semester and he makes it easier to enjoy because of his passion for the class and students. He doesn't require a textbook or concerts, just 3 exams and a few quizzes. Take good notes and study specifics!

As long as you go to Jon's class and take alright notes you can pass. Really great guy who, despite having around 200 students in one class, still cares about his students. Tests aren't very hard.

Gibson is really a great professor. The class is very interesting and as long as you show up and take some notes the tests are easy A's. I would definitely take a class with him again if I could. Just note that there is no textbook and he doesn't post powerpoints online.

He doesn't post his notes online so you kind of have to go to every lecture to get the notes. The tests weren't hard but they weren't the easiest either. You have to apply the concepts of what you learn in class for the tests. There is a reflection every week which are easy points and only 3 exams.

This is probably one if the easiest classes you can take as long as you actually show up. Professor Gibson really knows his stuff and note taking during the class is essential to get an A. As long as you show up, listen and take notes it's a breeze. Gibson is also pretty funny ,so it keeps it interesting.

Jon Gibson is such a cool guy! He's knowledgable and cares a lot about music. His lecutres can be long, but he makes them interesting by playing music throughout. He doesn't require concert attendance, and his homework is listening to music and the occasional quiz or reflection on a musical piece. Tests aren't hard if you do the homework. Take him!

Gibson's lectures were really interesting. He tied ideas together succinctly, and I left the class with a new appreciation for some music. He doesn't take attendance, but you need to go to class to get the notes. Overall, a really good professor!

Gibsons class are either lectures you follow and take notes with, or they are test days. Grades consist of quizzes, online assignments, and tests. There is no attendance policy, but if you miss a class you will need to get notes from a classmate. He is a funny, caring, intelligent guy and genuinely wants you to pass.

Gibson's lectures are very straightforward and easy to understand. There's no textbook or slides posted so it's important you go to his lectures to take notes. Grade is based off of 3 exams, some quizzes and online assignments. Overall, not a hard gen-ed. Take him if you have the chance!!

Every lecture was super interesting. There's a lot of homework (I forgot about it a couple times which brought my grade down) and you have to work for the grade, but he's an awesome professor and how much he cares about music is contagious. kind of difficult but I highly recommend him anyways. I would definitely take him again if I could.

does not take attendance but if you don't attend class, you won't pass. never posts lectures online and does not use a textbook so the only way to pass is to show up. lectures can be dry and boring but you dont need to be a music major to do well. easy gen ed

Dr. Gibson is the ONLY prof you should be taking MUS200 with. His lectures are amazing and the content is fascinating and engaging. Notes come straight from lecture and are essentially the exam, so it's important to come to class, but that's the easy part. I loved this class so much I never wanted to skip. Totally manageable gen ed... TAKE HIM!

I thought this class would be the death of me since I am taking it as a gen ed and didn't think I would find learning about old music interesting at all. I was wrong and I think this class is so interesting. I actually enjoy the lectures. But the only way you will pass is if you learn the content (which is really easy) and do the work.

Gibson's class is pretty good, not horrible. He posts his lectures online, gives you the option of attending a discussion on the music, and then individual and group reflections on ideas/pieces of music. It's manageable, but could be easier. The exams are a little hard and you MUST watch the lectures to be able to pass them.

Professor Gibson is a great teacher and the music you learn about is actually pretty interesting. The tests aren't hard if u take good notes during the lectures. All the test questions and answers come from the lectures so if you watch them you'll get an A.

Professor Gibson is amazing! I took his class in COVID so the setup was unique but if you listened to the lectures and took specific, detailed notes, the tests were completely manageable. I attended his optional class discussions and loved how knowledgeable he was about music and how easy it was to talk to him/ask questions. 10/10 class and teacher

Prof. Gibson is the BEST for MUS200. His lectures are interesting and easy to follow. He is so nice and genuinely cares about his students. Homework load is super easy, just 2 reflections a week and 2-3 listening pieces. Tests and quizzes are open note so as long as you watch the lectures and take good notes it's super easy.

Dr. Gibson is great, this period of music wasn't my favorite before, but he made it so interesting and interactive and the other music history classes I've taken have made me appreciate this one more. Even though the class was at 8 in the morning and sometimes it was hard for me to be fully attentive, he posts recordings + being there was worth it.

I liked everything about this class besides the tests. The professor is amazing he is such a nice guy and his lectures are great bit be ready for big tests. The tests are so hard there are only three and there are like 5 quizzes that are easy. No papers there is a lot of homework but its not bad.

You must take good notes to do well in this class. Professor is great but the information being taught is boring. All tests are lock down browser but not timed. There is a discussion board due before every class. Attendance is not mandatory but go if you want a good grade. As long as you do the assignments and study its easy to obtain at least a B.

Fairly easy class but need to go to the lectures to get his spoken notes since he doesn't post anything on canvas; only allows notes to be taken on paper. short discussion posts after each class, doesn't tolerate late work besides one assignment. exams in testing center multiple choice w 2 short responses easy with notes from class

Jonathan is very passionate about his class and it makes it fun to be in. Some people mention that the lectures are boring, this can be the case in any 75 minute class but if you like music this shouldn't be too much of a problem for you. Tests reflect the material learned well. Online assignments are discussions boards which can be half assed

I took this class as a requirement for the Music Major and heard a lot of bad things about it. They were all wrong; Dr. Gibson is very accessible outside of class and is super passionate. If you consistently show up to class, take good notes, and study for exams, you'll be just fine. It's not as bad as the dramatic music majors make it out to be.

In the beginning of the semester I was not looking forward to taking a music class, but by the end the professor had made it one of my favorite classes. Attendance was not mandatory, but he doesn't post any lecture notes or slides. There were 3 exams that were not cumulative and no final. Do count on a music reflection assignment after each class.

You have to take a lot of notes in this class in order to do well on the tests. This class definitely taught me a lot about music, and he is a good professor. You have homework after every class but it's not bad at all. I enjoyed this class and I think it is a good GenEd to take if you are still looking for one.

Attendance was not taken but you NEED to be there and take notes on EVERYTHING (notes will NOT be posted). If you can show up and write everything his says down, and do the below average amount of homework, you'll do fine. Class was interesting, it's like music appreciation+history. Prof. is very nice and willing to help you if confused. Loved it.

Dr. Gibson made a class about classical music interesting. He rocks. 5/5

For being a gen ed that doesn't matter, I loved this class and I loved John Gibson. He made the class enjoyable and interesting. At-home homework and quizzes, and a couple of tests in the testing center. If you're going to take mus 200, take it with Gibson.

This was my favorite course all semester! You need to go to class since he has powerpoints but doesn't post them and a lot of your notes come from him verbally. There are 3 exams but they are not cumulative. As long as you put in the work and take good notes, you'll do great! If I had the opportunity to take him again, I absolutely would, no doubt.

This class really opened up to me a world of music which I hadn't explored before, and by far was the most enjoyable class I took this semester and Professor Gibson is very passionate in what he is talking about. If you have any sort of music background, this class is easy to pick up on. This class is awesome and I absolutely recommend taking it.

Starts off class by saying this is not an easy Gen Ed, but I thought it was fine. Content was very interesting and engaging. Attendance is important because you just write down what he's saying and study from that. Workload was very manageable, but tests are sometimes hard because there's some specific questions. There's no final for this class.

One of the best professors I have had this semester! Professor Gibson makes learning about music super interesting, and he is funny too which adds to the energy of the class. There are a lot of assignments but depending on what they are they should only take 10-15 min. Exams are super easy just study and you'll be fine.

I enjoyed this class solely because of Dr. Gibson. If you're going to take MUS200, take it with him. He doesn't post any notes. At all... Lots of things are up for interpretation, so you sort of have to be in class or you're going to be confused for the rest of the unit. 3 exams, noncumulative, with weekly reflections

Dr. Gibson is very passionate about what he teaches, and that comes across in his lectures. He doesn't post any notes, and he has a no electronics policy in class, but it's fine because if you're paying attention in the class, it's insanely easy, especially if you have some prior music experience. There's only 3 noncumulative exams which is nice.

Honestly my favorite class last semester. He's a super cool dude and definitely passionate about music. You do have to show up to class because he doesn't post any lecture slides, and he has a no-electronics policy, but he made class entertaining enough. He let's you out early nearly every class and drops your worst 2 grades at the end of the sem.

Dr. Gibson is easily one of my favorite professors. He is so passionate about what he teaches that you can't help but find yourself passionate with him. He is very well travelled and easily goes on tangents about the things that interest him. The class is difficult, because there is so much information, but he makes it worth it! Take him if you can

By far one of my favorite professors for my first semester. You need to go to class to be successful b/c he doesn't post any notes from his lectures online. Has a no electronic policy which I think really helped me pay attention better in class. Homework assignment almost every class, and 3 tests -- You need to pay attention to do well on the tests

Super nice, and understanding. Just a TON of a reading, like so so much reading. Only one oral exam which was relatively easy if you just went to class. Semester project is not super hard, but it takes a good amount of work

Professor Gibson's lectures are engaging, though he doesn't post slides. Attendance is a must, but the 3 non-cumulative exams are manageable. unstuckstudy was a lifesaver for exam prep.

He is super caring. Has sympathy for his students and wants to help. For me was a hard class, I struggled. Go to class you and you will do fine. Doesn't post notes and you mainly take notes onf what is being said in class. Need to find friends in the class so that if you miss you can get notes. He is very responsive with email. Tests are hard.

You get assignments after every class but they are mainly discussion boards that you don't typically have to respond to people. I like the class because it is interest but its hard to take notes for because his slides are minimal. The test are easy if you go to class because he puts questions on the test that he talks about in class.

Gibson lectures the whole class, but is super passionate about music which makes them interesting. As long as you go to class and pay attention/take notes, you'll be fine. Exams are super manageable if you show up to class. Highly recommend!

Professor Gibson is great. There are 3 exams, no final. It is a lecture heavy class, and there are no slides posted, so you must go to class to succeed. There are a bunch of written reflections as homework but they are super easy. As long as you go to class, do the reflections, and study for the exams, you should do totally fine and get an A

Genuine professor. Attendance isn't necessarily mandatory, but if you don't go, you won't do well in the class. No slides for specific notes, just write down the key points of what he's saying and you'll be fine. 3 unit based tests (no cumulative final) that are based directly off what he says in class. He's also a funny guy, which is cool.

Professor Gibson is an amazing professor. Although attendance isn't mandatory, if you don't go to class, you won't do well. As long as you go to class, take notes, and do the reflections and quizzes, you'll be fine. There are 3 total exams, and there is no cumulative final. He is super passionate about music and is also funny.

One of the best and most inspirational teachers I've seen. His lectures are interesting and world-useful. Coursework is easy as long as you pay attention and write everything he says down, he goes slow enough that you can. 3 Exams, the final isn't cumulative and hw is easy. I took MUS 200 and if you can take it with him. DO IT!!!

Lectures were somewhat interesting but has a no electronics policy so you have to hand write your notes. Kind of took it too seriously when its a gen ed but not bad overall. Theres 3 exams with A LOT of info on them. Goes on tangents about how he specializes in Baroque music and brags about all hes done in music when no one really cares sometimes.

Nice guy, very passionate about the material. Attendance not mandatory but missing class can rlly hurt your grade bc of what you miss. Pay close attention to what he says because nothing is on the slides. Quizzes online & at home. Exams were easy if you pay attention in class. Easy grader for short homework reflections on different pieces of music.

Professor Gibson is an entertaining lecturer. There are 3 assessments that were pretty easy and straightforward from the notes. As long as you do the short assignments before each class (no late work) and go to class and take notes you will do well. Prior music knowledge is not necessary, but it helps a little.

You need to attend class to pass! He is very passionate about music and ir helps keep your attention. Lectures can be boring and also pay attention to what he says. The tests were not too difficult if you paid attention in class. It was enjoyable and I recommend it. He was also very nice and open to questions and would go over a topic again

He's really nice, if you show up to class and take notes you're chilling. Attendance isn't required but if you miss you're screwed, he doesn't post the content.

Take him!! He is sweet and tries his best to make the class engaging, but the content can be a bit boring at times. Three exams, which are exactly what you learn in class in lectures, so do not skip! Homework is completion grade, quizzes are rare, but overall he is a good professor to take!

Gibson is awesome! Always had such interesting lectures, and you can tell he really loves what he does. There's a reflection assignment for almost every class, but they're manageable. Attendance is technically not mandatory, but he doesn't post notes and goes over lots of material every day, so this isn't a good class to skip.

This class was a gen ed for me but I really enjoyed it and Professor Gibson did a really good job at getting you engaged.

Consists of 3 exams in the testing center which are 60% of your grade and the rest are HW/at home quizzes. The HW is basically a completion grade but the class is extremely exam heavy. Attendance is mandatory bc his lectures are exactly what's on the exam so if you miss class ask a friend for the notes. Overall, an amazing professor and class!