Classical music: an introduction
introduce you to the history of music through a careful choice of works.
- Course Code: MD897
- Dates: 22/07/24 - 22/07/24
- Time: 13:30 - 16:30
- Taught: Mon, Daytime
- Duration: 1 session
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Pauline Greene
Course Code: MD897
Duration: 1 session
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This enjoyable introductory course offers an overview of classical music through la selection of musical works composed across several hundred years. Learn about key styles (genres) of classical music and how an understanding of historical context can increase your listening pleasure. Most importantly, learn to demystify some of the specialist words that musicians use and join in the discussion with confidence!
What will we cover?
- Introduction to periods and styles in Western classical music
- Introduction to significant and representative composers in their socio-historical context
- Overview of main genres such as symphony, sonata, chamber music, keyboard music, art song.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- feel more confident when talking about music and musical styles
- have an enhanced understanding of key styles and genres of classical music
- feel confident to explore classical music in more detail in future.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
No previous knowledge of music is required but you should have an interest in classical music and be keen to find out more.
You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English, engage in class discussions and take notes in English.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
- Tutor presentation and explanation, including handouts
- Guided listening and watching of audio and audio-visual examples
- Class discussion and debate
Course materials will be shared via Google Classroom, with options for you to explore further after the course.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Please bring a notebook and pen to take your own notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
We recommend our series of Exploring classical music courses.
City Lit also has a wide range of Music history courses, both in person and online. You may also be interested in exploring the language of music further through music theory or musicianship courses.
Pauline Greene studied composition at Nottingham University and then composed, performed and was Musical Director with various theatre companies. She taught flute and composition, performing her music across the UK at various venues, including the Southbank Centre and the Edinburgh Festival, with her group The Concert Party, which she managed and directed. She has taught at the Universities of Middlesex and Hertfordshire, and ran the Music Access course at Morley College. She taught at Birkbeck from 1984-2023, moving from Music to Arts Management, and currently lectures on the MA in Events and Experience Management at Goldsmiths. She has given talks at the Royal Opera House, Wigmore Hall and Glyndebourne. At City Lit Pauline teaches a wide range of music history courses, with specialisms in opera, music for dance, theatre and film, musical analysis, and music since 1900. She is still involved in the organisation of small-scale charity concerts and one-off musical events, and she sings and plays with several small groups.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
