Event—Adult Education

The Heroic Beethoven and the Birth of Musical Romanticism

Beethoven's middle period works—known as the “heroic Beethoven”— comprise the single most influential repertory in the history of Western music.

Cost and Registration Information

Early Registration Price (by September 1): $250
Regular Price (after September 1): $275

Register Online

Seminar Description

Beethoven's middle period works—known as the “heroic Beethoven”— comprise the single most influential repertory in the history of Western music. The "Eroica" symphony, the mighty Fifth, the "Emperor" piano concerto, and other works permanently established the model of artist as hero, artist as liberator, artist as sacrifice. The Romanticism of Schumann, Berlioz, Mendelssohn, Wagner, Mahler, and the contemporary image of musical genius is unthinkable without Beethoven's achievement. This course contextualizes these great works and assesses their impact on the course of music history. Eight sessions.

John Gibbons teaches piano, composition, music theory, and a variety of music appreciation classes for adults. He holds a PhD in music composition from the University of Chicago and is a long-time instructor at the University of Chicago Graham School.

Materials List

Required:

  • There are no required materials for this class.

First Reading:

  • There is no reading assignment for the first class.

This class is part of the Newberry’s Adult Education Seminars Program. Learn more about our registration procedures.