Time Schedule:
Craig Sheppard
MUSIC 449
Seattle Campus
For piano majors who wish an in-depth survey of major areas of the piano repertoire. Prerequisite: MUSIC 328. Offered: AWSp.
Class description
This quarter, we will concentrate on the late Beethoven sonatas, from Opus 78 through Opus 111. Especially interesting will be the periods during which Beethoven did NOT compose anything, and why. What were the circumstances that prompted each of the sonatas - if not prompted, surrounded?
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
I frequently make you of maps and other similar materials. An historical perspective on everything - i.e. what else was happening in Europe, and the world, at that time - is vital to understanding the specific nature of Beethoven's greatest output. We will also do comparisons of different performances on CD, helping you to better understand the variety of approaches to these works.
Recommended preparation
Music 326-328 (Piano Repertoire) is the prerequisite. I will assume a certain knowledge of geography, history, and theory. Beyond that, all I ask is that you come in eager to learn and to participate in the class discussions. Your input, and feedback, is as vital to the success of the class as what I am able to teach you!
Class assignments and grading
You will have listening assignments every week, streamed from our Listening Center. These will vary in length. We will discuss the content that I expect from these assignements when you come to the first class of the quarter. There will also be a book report of Maynard Solomon's 'Late Beethoven'.
There will be a mid-term. This will count for approximately 20% of your grade. The final will count for 30%. Your weekly assignments will count for 20%, your book report for 20%, and your classroom participation for 10%.
