20th Century: The Crisis of Tonality: Music at an Impasse

We will look at some of the momentous innovations in classical music in the twentieth century, specifically in respect to tonality and problems of “form”: in the seminar, as viewed by three major composers—Arnold Schoenberg, Aaron Copland, and George Rochberg—and framed through Roger Scruton’s foundational, provocative book, Understanding Music; in the tutorial, as imaginatively configured through Thomas Mann’s great novel, Doctor Faustus. Some familiarity with modern classical music is essential. (Musical expertise will be appreciated.)

Recommended—highly—for historical background: Ross, Alex, The Rest is Noise. ISBN 978-0312427719

Notes

Online registration closes September 24 at 5 pm CT.

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