Introduction to Classical Music from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

What Is Music?

Every day around the world, billions of people listen to music of one sort or another, and millions listen to Western classical music. Why do we do it? Because it’s fun? Because it energizes or relaxes us? Because it keeps us current, allows us to understand what’s happening in past and popular culture? The pull of music--especially classical music—has never been explained. The aim of this course is to do just that: To explicate the mysteries and beauties of some of Western cultures greatest musical compositions—among them masterpieces of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Wagner, and Puccini. We begin with the elements of music, breaking classical musical into its components of pitch, duration, and sound color, allowing us to better understand how music works. Next, we proceed to the compositions themselves, starting with the Middle Ages and Renaissance, to show how Western music developed in ways unique to the West. Ultimately, we reach the masters, commencing with Bach. What makes his music great? Why does it move us? What should we listen for? And so we proceed down through Western musical history, visiting virtually the people who created it and the places where they did so. By the end, we hope all of us have become more human (enriched our personalities) and had a rollicking good time!

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Helps students appreciate Western classical music, creating a deeper understanding of culture and artistic expression

Explores the elements of classical music and how they've evolved over time

Taught by Craig Wright, an expert in both classical music and music education

Covers a wide range of musical periods, from the Middle Ages to the present day

Engages students through a variety of media, including videos, audio clips, and interactive exercises

Introduces students to the works of some of the greatest composers in history, such as Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Wagner

Reviews summary

Accessible classical music introduction

According to learners, this course offers an excellent introduction perfect for beginners and those with little to no prior knowledge of classical music. Students highlight the engaging and knowledgeable instructor, whose passion makes the subject accessible and enjoyable. The course provides a broad historical overview, guiding learners through key periods and composers from the Middle Ages to modern times. Many appreciate the rich musical examples that help illustrate concepts. While it successfully builds a solid foundation and takes you on an enjoyable journey, some mention that the depth is introductory, which is expected but worth noting for those seeking advanced analysis.

Good overview, not deep dives.

"While excellent for beginners, those seeking deep analysis might find it too surface-level."

"Wish some sections went into a bit more detail on specific composers or complex pieces."

"Provides a broad understanding, but limited depth in certain areas, as expected for an intro."

Covers periods from Medieval to Modern.

"Appreciated the journey through different eras, from Bach to Debussy and beyond."

"A good overview of the evolution of Western classical music history and styles."

"Explores key composers and styles across many centuries, giving a broad perspective."

Abundant and well-chosen pieces.

"Loved the musical examples provided; they really brought the concepts to life."

"Hearing snippets of the pieces discussed was incredibly helpful and enjoyable."

"Introduced me to many wonderful works I hadn't heard before taking this course."

Professor is highly engaging and knowledgeable.

"The professor is absolutely brilliant and makes complex ideas easy to grasp."

"His passion for the subject is infectious and kept me motivated throughout the course."

"Learned so much thanks to the instructor's clear explanations and examples. He really brings the music to life."

Perfect starting point for novices.

"As someone new to classical music, this course was exactly what I needed."

"Assumes no prior knowledge and builds a solid foundation from the ground up."

"Makes classical music approachable and not intimidating at all for newcomers."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Classical Music with these activities:

Review musical concepts

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Review basic musical concepts to strengthen your foundation before starting the course.

Browse courses on Pitch

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Go over the elements of music
Play around with different musical instruments
Listen to different genres and styles of music

Explore the basics of sound

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Familiarize yourself with the science behind music to deepen your understanding.

Browse courses on Sound Waves

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Watch videos or read articles about sound waves
Experiment with different sounds using a sound generator

Read 'The Rest Is Noise' by Alex Ross

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Gain historical context and insights into classical music through this acclaimed book.

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Read a chapter or two each week
Take notes and highlight important passages

Four other activities

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Create a musical playlist

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Curate a playlist that reflects your understanding of musical styles and periods.

Browse courses on Music Appreciation

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Choose a theme or concept for your playlist
Research and select pieces that fit your theme
Write a brief description or analysis of each piece

Attend a classical music concert

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Experience the magic of classical music live by attending a concert.

Browse courses on Music Appreciation

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Find a concert in your area
Purchase tickets

Practice ear training exercises

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Sharpen your ear and develop your musical intuition by practicing identifying intervals.

Browse courses on Ear Training

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Download an ear training app or software
Practice regularly

Write a blog post about your favorite composer

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Demonstrate your knowledge and passion for classical music by writing about a composer that inspires you.

Browse courses on Music Appreciation

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Choose a composer you admire
Research their life and works
Write a draft of your blog post

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Classical Music will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Composer

As a Composer, your duties are to compose, arrange, orchestrate, and conduct musical compositions. You may collaborate with others to produce music both live or in the studio, and you'll work to create your own unique musical style and voice. This course can help to familiarize you with the elements of music and how they go into creating a musical composition. It will also expose you to the works of famous composers throughout history who can serve as inspiration for your own creative work.

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Music Teacher

As a Music Teacher, you will guide people as they seek to learn about music. This may involve educating children in schools or giving private music lessons. This course may help you to develop your teaching strategies as you learn about the elements of music, famous composers, and music history, and can help you better explain these concepts to your students.

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Musicologist

Musicologists study the history, theory, and practice of music. They may also work as music critics or editors. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career in Musicology.

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Music Critic

Music Critics analyze and evaluate music performances and compositions. They may write reviews for newspapers, magazines, or websites. This course may help you build a foundation in music criticism, as you will learn about the elements of music and how they come together in musical compositions.

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Musician

As a Musician, you will perform music, either as a soloist or as part of a group. You may play an instrument, sing, or conduct an orchestra or choir. This course may help you develop your musical skills and knowledge as you learn about the elements of music, famous composers, and music history.

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Music Librarian

Music Librarians organize and maintain music collections in libraries and archives. They may also assist patrons with research and provide reference services. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Librarian.

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Music Producer

Music Producers oversee the recording and production of music. They may work with musicians, singers, and engineers to create a final product. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and production, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Producer.

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Music Therapist

Music Therapists use music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and cognitive health. They may work with individuals or groups in a variety of settings. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Therapist.

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Music Director

Music Directors lead and manage music organizations, such as orchestras, choirs, and opera companies. They may also be responsible for booking concerts, fundraising, and public relations. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Director.

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Music Arranger

Music Arrangers adapt musical compositions for different instruments or ensembles. They may also create new arrangements of existing songs. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and orchestration, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Arranger.

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Music Journalist

Music Journalists write about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They may also interview musicians and review concerts. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Journalist.

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Music Educator

Music Educators teach music in schools and other educational settings. They may also work with students with special needs. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Educator.

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Music Promoter

Music Promoters promote and organize concerts and other music events. They may also work with artists to develop their careers. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Promoter.

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Music Publisher

Music Publishers acquire and distribute musical works. They may also provide services such as copyright protection and royalty collection. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Publisher.

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Music Executive

Music Executives oversee the operations of music companies. They may be responsible for a variety of tasks, such as artist development, marketing, and finance. This course may help you build a foundation in music theory and history, which may prove valuable if you pursue a career as a Music Executive.

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