Beethoven5th

An introduction to highlights of Western music.  After a look at the elements of music and learning the instruments of the modern orchestra, the course follows a survey of Western music from early times to the present.  One or more examples are heard from each period:  Patristic; Carolingian; Romanesque; Gothic; early, middle and late Renaissance; early, middle and late Baroque; Classical; early and late Romantic; and the various "isms" of the 20th century.  Lectures follow the textbook and listening examples and listening tests are taken from the CD's that come with the textbook.  There are five listening tests and six written tests.

The aim of the course is to introduce as many great musical styles as possible in the short time allotted so that one will have a foundation on which to build further knowledge and enjoyment of music.

A person will need to bring the joy of discovery, but  previous knowledge or ability in music is not required.

Any one in these classes should be fully aware of attendance and examination policies.

Requirements include five listening tests and six written tests.

Do you know the meaning of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony? (See above.)

Amaze your friends!  Amaze yourself!


Be able to converse about:

  Impressionism              Expressionism        Verismo
      Nationalism        Primitivism   Minimalism  Neo-Classicism      REALISM  Chance Music (random)

The world's most famous opera house.
       Why Americans love Tchaikowsky
                The Venetian splendor of Gabrieli      The origins of opera
   The awesome power of Parisian early Gothic organum.  The   super-sophistication of late
          Parisian Gothic motets 

Corelli and the sonata
The fun of Haydn    Vivaldi and the concerto   
Will listening to Mozart give you higher marks?

 The universal appeal of Bach
Why is plainsong gaining in popularity?
The mystical music of Hildegard suddenly 
strikes into our own time

The multiple personalities of Schumann

Lively Renaissance dances!  

The Carolingian ideal finally becomes a reality.          Verdi and Staten Island
   Does love equal death?  What did Wagner mean in Tristan und Isolde?

The strange stand-off between the most famous troubadour and the most influential Arab general; the evil brother who gave us the Magna Carta; the patron of the arts who was put in prison.

Is the Franco-Flemish style the high point of Western civilization?

The Teutonic Gods still live in Wagner's Ring Cycle

AND MORE!