The peccadilloes and peculiarities of notable composers who have contributed enduring compositions to the world of classical music are exposed!

In this course we will explore the lives of notable composers who have contributed enduring compositions to the world of classical music. We will listen to their music and discuss their lives and the music they composed and in doing so will gain a deeper understanding of these notable composers, their lives, and their music.

Without composers we would not have classical music — this gives composers a hallowed place with classical music lovers……BUT not all composers were saints or were without quirks or weaknesses. Do you know which composer(s) suffered from unrequited love? Which composer was a cross dresser? Which vaunted Baroque-era composer wrote one of his most notable masterpieces while behind bars? 

Don’t worry…. not all composers had skeletons — or dresses — in their closets: There are some uplifting stories, too. There’s the nine-year-old composer who wished for roller skates for his birthday, but instead he received an unusual instrument that became a signature to many of his compositions. And which composer had a pet bird that inspired the composer’s music? 

What to Expect:  

The objective for this course is to provide classical music lovers — and those who are classical music-curious — with some fun, interesting, intriguing, and thought-provoking facts about some of the people who over the centuries have composed the beautiful and enduring music that we so appreciate.  There may even be an opportunity to attend a classical music concert — or two.

Feedback from the Muphen’s last program with us:

“Great class.  Muphen is very knowledgeable, organized, accessible, and personable. She used a variety of teaching approaches that made it particularly interesting, fun, and engaging.”

“Muphen’s knowledge is exceptional and her enthusiasm is contagious! Thank you for an enjoyable journey.”

“Wonderful class – please bring it back again!”

“We had great discussions, wonderful enthusiasm and a terrific leader. Thank you Muphen.”

Muphen R. Whitney

Muphen R. Whitney is a life-long lover of classical music. For the past decade she has provided podcasts for classical music and arts organizations in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. She recently recorded “Conversations and Classical Music with Muphen Whitney”, a 13-program radio series that aired on WSCL in Salisbury. Miss Whitney is not a musician, nor does she have an academic musical education. Her musical knowledge comes from decades of attending concerts and pre-concert lectures and picking the brains of the musicians, conductors, and composers who are friends and/or who have been guests on her podcasts and radio programs.

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