Classical music lover? Classical music curious?  Explore the joyous, wondrous, and interesting aspects of classical music.

This is a course for classical music lovers and — especially — for those who are classical music curious. It is not a music theory course, nor is it an academic music appreciation course. The course will be based on the radio program “Conversations and Classical Music with Muphen Whitney.”

Muphen will engender a desire to know more about classical music as she imparts a knowledge of the joyous, wondrous, and interesting aspects of this genre of music. 

Over six weeks, Muphen will help us explore the following subject areas: 

1) Classical Music – What Is It Anyway? 

2) The Eras of Classical Music 

3) Orchestras and Orchestral Music; Chamber Groups and Chamber Music 

4) Conductors and Concertmasters and Musicians….oh, my! 

5) Favorite Composers, Pieces, and Instruments 

6) Opportunities to Enjoy Classical Music; Most Memorable Performances. 

These topics are subject to change based on the interest of the class. The course will include excerpts of conversations (with musicians, conductors, and others involved in the world of classical music) from the radio program “Conversations and Classical Music” and will have guest speakers (if possible), but the main thrust of the class is to engage participants in conversation around each aspect of classical music after an initial presentation of the subject. Class members will be encouraged to bring their favorite pieces of music to share. There will be an opportunity to attend a local concert (or two?).

What to expect: 

Muphen’s objective for this course is to expose us to aspects of classical music that we may not be familiar with and to engage everyone in discussions of this ever-fascinating genre of music.  Expect to come away with an increased knowledge of and appreciation for classical music, and the ability to engage in conversation with other classical music lovers, including those who are simply classical music curious. This course should help instill a level of comfort and familiarity with classical music that will make us all feel confident attending concerts.

6 Sessions | Wednesdays | January 29, February 5, 12, 19, 26, March 5 | 1:30 – 3 pm | IN PERSON (at the Easton Family YMCA on Peachblossom) | $60