Beethoven's lifespan (1770-1827) saw music transformed almost beyond recognition. This course will study music composed in this period, particularly by Beethoven - a period that saw the decline of the classical style and the dawning of what came to be known as romanticism. The era was retrospectively seen to be dominated by Beethoven and the course will pay particular attention to his musical development but other important composers active at this time, such as Cherubini, Spontini, Schubert, Spohr, Rossini and Weber will also be studied. Apart from individual composers' developments, the course will also consider social and political change and how it affected musical genres and composers' careers. Particular attention will be paid to genres such as opera, symphony and concerto but consideration will also be given to chamber music and solo song. No specialist knowledge is required for full participation, just an interest in listening to music and finding out more about it.

Half term - Monday 12th - Friday 16th February 2024