Why do we love Handel's Messiah

If you want to learn more about this masterpiece, you'll explore its fascinating background - including the offstage dramas at its premiere - hear its wonderful music, watch a film, and discuss what 'Messiah' means to you.

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Key course information

Dates
27/11/11 - 04/12/11

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
2 weeks

Time
10:30 - 13:30

Fees
Full fee: £57^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
MD815

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
music@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2630

Course outline

What is the course about?

If you enjoy ‘Messiah’ either as a listener or as a performer, welcome to an exciting opportunity to find out a lot more and enrich your experience of the work. Get to know the stories behind Handel’s ‘Messiah’ in the company of other enthusiasts. For all those who love this great work and want to broaden their understanding.

What topics will we cover?

-The origins of Handel’s English Oratorio from ‘Esther’ (1732) to ‘Messiah (1742).
-Handel’s relationship with his librettist Jennens, their purposes in creating the work
-How Handel composed it in 24 days, Handel’s friendship with Susannah Cibber and the sensational premiere.
-The role of the Foundling Hospital in popularizing ‘Messiah’.
-Developments in performance style over the years.
-Finally, the legacy – what place does ‘Messiah’ have in our culture? What performances are current this Christmas?

By the end of this course you should be able to:

-Understand the historical background which shaped the work, and see it as a piece which reflects its own time, as well as appealing to each new generation in its own time.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No musical knowledge needed.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will listen to the key facts presented and be able to read documentary material in handouts and on the whiteboard. You will also be encouraged to discuss what you are learning in small groups and as a whole group. There will be recorded musical excerpts: a broad selection of ‘Messiah’ favourites, plus a film excerpt from ‘The Great Mr. Handel’.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

It would be advisable to listen to a recording of ‘Messiah’ just before the course to remind yourself of your favourite pieces, or questions you might want to raise. Highly recommended recordings: John Eliot Gardner, The Sixteen.
Highly recommended artistes: Mark Padmore, Catherine Robbin.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. You will judge in what respects the work has been opened up to you and whether you want to proceed to further study.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2630

music@citylit.ac.uk

Auditions and Advice Information

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Music

Tel: 020 7492 2630

music@citylit.ac.uk

Auditions and Advice Information

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

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