Exploring classical music: module 1

What is the course about?

This course will lead you on a fascinating journey through the history and development of Western classical music, guiding you through a selection of sacred and secular styles and works, explaining key musical changes at each stage.
In module 1 we explore how music works, and how it changed from the Medieval to the early Baroque period. No previous musical knowledge is necessary.

What will we cover?

- chronological survey of Western music from Medieval to early Baroque periods
- the fundamental elements of music (melody, harmony, rhythm, texture etc.) and how they work
- the development of style and of genres (Christian sacred music such as Gregorian chant, Mass settings and motets, and secular vocal and instrumental music from madrigals to trio sonatas and early opera)
- key composers and works from the period, from Hildegard of Bingen and Perotin to Palestrina and Monteverdi
- the social and historical context for key musical works.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Recognise key features of Medieval, Renaissance and early Baroque music
- Understand fundamental elements of music (melody, harmony, rhythm etc.) and how they work
- Understand the development of styles and genres in early Western music
- Show specific knowledge of certain key composers and their works, in their social and historical context.

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

This course is designed as an overview for absolute beginners. However, we will look at some notated music and learn to identify key features of (e.g. how many voices are singing, where the pitch goes up and down) so this course designed for those who are curious and ambitious to learn.
You need to be able to follow written and verbal instructions and engage in class discussion in English, and to take your own notes.

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

Tutor presentation, guided listening, class discussion and debate, video and score study.
Course materials will be shared via Google Classroom: handouts, scores, links to online audio and video, recommendations to encourage and support further reading and listening outside class.

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

Please have a pen and notebook to make your own notes during class.
You may wish to purchase some of the music books or recordings discussed in class; links to these materials will be available after each session. You may also wish to attend or take part in live performances.

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

This course is followed by Exploring classical music: module 2, but you may also be interested in Exploring Opera courses, or other topics in City Lit's wide range of Music history courses. For more information, visit our Guide to the Music history programme.