Start Date
30 April, 2024
There will be 5 weekly meetings on Tuesday, 10am - 12pm, starting from 30 April.
Overview
This unique course will introduce you to the works of J.S.Bach (and other composers of the Baroque era) through analysis and interrogation of some of his most popular works. Looking at such works as The Brandenburg Concertos, The Well Tempered Clavier, St.Matthew’s Passion and Toccata and Fugue in D minor (amongst others), we will discover the history, context, structure, chords, melody, notation, interpretation, and performance techniques that are also common in many other works of the Baroque period. This course includes an optional practical dimension, where participants will have the opportunity to look at simplified sections from Bach’s works on the piano (or keyboard) in order to further immerse themselves the musical genius of the artist (this will be a small proportion of the learning in the lectures and will mainly advise on repertoire and how to practice between sessions).
Whether you want to listen to classical music with a deeper knowledge and understanding, have a greater appreciation and enjoyment of music, or experience playing Bach’s works on the piano/ keyboard at whatever standard you play- this course is for you.
Suitable for all. No prior knowledge of music required. Access to a keyboard/piano at home is advantageous, but is not required.
• Week 1. An overview of the course. History, life and context of the music of Bach (including a look at his major works and compositional output) and overview of the Baroque period in music.
• Week 2. The Brandenburg Concertos- What is a concerto/ concerto grosso? An exploration of this form of music and look at the development of the orchestra during this period.
• Week 3. St.Matthew’s Passion/ B minor Mass- An exploration of Bach’s sacred choral music.
• Week 4. Toccata and Fugue in D minor/ The Well Tempered Clavier- investigation of Bach’s keyboard compositional output, for the harpsichord, organ and eventually the piano.
• Week 5. Instrumental works- Exploration of Bach’s works for the flute, violin and cello through investigation of the Flute Sonata in B minor, the Six Suites for Cello and the Concerto for 2 violins in D minor.
Please note that the ‘last date available to book’ date is only a guide. We reserve the right to close bookings earlier if courses are over- or under-subscribed. In order to avoid disappointment, please be sure enrol as soon as possible. Registrations will not be processed until the following day if received after 3pm.
Course Lecturer: Debbie Adewale
Debbie began her studies at the Royal Northern College of Music Junior Department. She then went on to study the flute and piano at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, where she studied with Jonathan Rimmer, Colin Lilley and Elena Duran, attaining a First Class Honours Degree. Since graduating, Debbie has combined a varied career of teaching and performing professionally. Debbie has previously taught lectures in Music Theory for University of Liverpool Continuing Education and her other teaching has spanned primary, secondary, GCSE, A Level teaching and teaching the flute to degree level. She is a freelance flautist, performing as a chamber musician and soloist, most notably as the second member of the Melandra Flute and Harp Duo.
Courses fees: Full fee £75/Concession £38.
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