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Jonathan Biss
Welcome to Part 3 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas!
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Welcome to Part 3 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas!
Read more
Welcome to Part 3 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas!
I'm delighted to launch another set of new lectures of this course as Part 3. As before, this class is meant for people of all levels of experience with Beethoven's music (including no experience at all!). Remember that you are able to watch the lectures as many times as you like, at whatever pace is comfortable for you.
As I’ve done with the first two sets of Beethoven lectures, I look forward to meeting with students—online and in person, in various cities. The dates and locations will be posted in the Announcements and Events section, as part of the course content. So please remember to check back there for details.
In these four new lectures, we will explore the following sonatas:
• Sonata Op. 10, No. 1
• Sonata Op. 22
• Sonata Op. 31, No. 2
• Sonata Opp. 78, 79, 81a
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Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/gtb6jc/exploring
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What's inside
Syllabus
welcome to class
We are glad that you have joined us for Part 3 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas course, taught by Curtis faculty member and extraordinary concert artist, Jonathan Biss! This course is considered Part 3, with new and separate sets of lectures. Specifically, in Part 3 we will cover Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Op. 10, No. 1, Op. 22, Op. 31, No. 2 and Opp. 78, 79 and 81a. As with the other two Beethoven courses, it is not necessary to have taken the previous Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas courses. We know you will be perfectly comfortable to start learning with Part 3, if you wish and go from here. There is always the option to go back to Parts 1 and 2 at any time. Between these two courses, there exists a large amount of additional resources and learning that might be helpful as you embark on Part 3. We certainly encourage you to take Parts 1 and 2, if you have not just yet. In the meantime, enjoy the class: Part 3 of Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas.
Read more
Syllabus
welcome to class
We are glad that you have joined us for Part 3 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas course, taught by Curtis faculty member and extraordinary concert artist, Jonathan Biss! This course is considered Part 3, with new and separate sets of lectures. Specifically, in Part 3 we will cover Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Op. 10, No. 1, Op. 22, Op. 31, No. 2 and Opp. 78, 79 and 81a. As with the other two Beethoven courses, it is not necessary to have taken the previous Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas courses. We know you will be perfectly comfortable to start learning with Part 3, if you wish and go from here. There is always the option to go back to Parts 1 and 2 at any time. Between these two courses, there exists a large amount of additional resources and learning that might be helpful as you embark on Part 3. We certainly encourage you to take Parts 1 and 2, if you have not just yet. In the meantime, enjoy the class: Part 3 of Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas.
Read more
Op. 10 No. 1
Op. 22
op. 31 no. 2
opp. 78, 79 and 81a
Listening to the Sonatas
To supplement your learning during the course, enjoy free access to several of the Jonathan's Beethoven Sonatas recordings.
Your Thoughts Welcome
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Provides a deep dive into a specific set of Beethoven's piano sonatas, tapping into a niche interest for classical music enthusiasts and performers
Taught by Jonathan Biss, an internationally renowned concert pianist and pedagogue, providing learners with access to high-quality instruction from an expert in the field
Suitable for learners of all experience levels, making it accessible to a wide audience, including beginners and enthusiasts alike
Focuses on exploring specific sonatas, rather than providing a comprehensive overview of Beethoven's entire piano sonata repertoire, potentially limiting its appeal to those seeking a broader understanding of the composer's work
Relies on external resources, such as access to Jonathan Biss's Beethoven Sonatas recordings, which may require additional subscriptions or purchases
Save this course
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Reviews summary
Beethoven's piano sonatas explored
Learners say this course is an excellent introduction to Beethoven's piano sonatas. Jonathan Biss's engaging lectures and piano playing have motivated learners to revisit the piano after decades, explore Beethoven's sonatas in greater depth, and better understand how to play classical music in general. Many students recommend this course to beginners but note that it may require a minimal musical background. Overall, students find Biss to be a wonderful lecturer and great guide who is passionate about Beethoven and provides interesting facts and insight into his sonatas.
This course is accessible to both beginners and experienced musicians.
"Great introduction, probably do need a minimal musical background to make most of it."
"This course is a good course for classical music enthusiasts or for those who want to get more familiar with classical music."
Biss provides detailed analysis of Beethoven's sonatas and his life.
"again, wonderful analysis of sonatas."
"Interesante análisis de las sonatas de Beethoven. Muy didáctico y útil para interpretar mejor las sonatas."
"To put so much into such a short space of time. A very rewarding experience."
Biss's lectures have inspired learners to play the piano again and explore Beethoven's sonatas more deeply.
"This series of courses continues to be outstanding. Biss's exciting, inspiring lecturing and playing of these sonatas has motivated me to start studying piano again for the first time since I was a teenager."
"For a long time I avoided playing Beethoven sonatas because I had no affinity for them. Prof Bliss was able to provide interesting facts about each sonata shedding light into Beethoven's ingenuity and 'tricks' so to speak, inspiring me to explore them more deeply."
Jonathan Biss is highly knowledgeable and passionate about Beethoven.
"Mr. Biss is uniquely qualified to guide students through Beethoven and his sonatas."
"Jonathan is awesome!"
"Prof. Biss is the authority on Beethoven."
"Jonathan Biss has inspired me to be a better musician."
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 Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 with these
activities:
Review Music Theory Basics
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of basic music theory concepts, including scales, chords, and rhythm, to enhance your understanding of Beethoven's sonatas.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
-
Review scales and their construction.
-
Practice identifying chords and their inversions.
-
Analyze the rhythmic patterns in simple pieces.
Review Beethoven's Musical Style and Historical Context
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of Beethoven's musical style and the historical context during which he composed his sonatas to enhance your understanding of the pieces explored in this course.
Browse courses on
Historical Context
Show steps
-
Review key characteristics of Beethoven's musical style, such as his use of dissonance, development sections, and rhythmic innovations.
-
Explore the historical context of Beethoven's time, including the cultural and political influences that shaped his musical journey.
Read 'Beethoven's Piano Sonatas: A Short Companion' by Charles Rosen
Show steps
Gain additional insights into Beethoven's piano sonatas by reading this comprehensive guide, offering historical context, analytical perspectives, and detailed discussions of each sonata.
View
Beethoven's Piano Sonatas
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow the book from a library.
-
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key passages.
-
Refer to the book throughout the course to supplement your understanding.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore Beethoven's Piano Sonatas with Online Tutorials
Show steps
Supplement your learning by seeking out online tutorials that provide in-depth analysis and performance insights into Beethoven's piano sonatas.
Show steps
-
Search for reputable online sources offering tutorials on Beethoven's sonatas.
-
Choose tutorials that cover the specific sonatas included in Part 3.
-
Take notes and practice the techniques and interpretations demonstrated in the tutorials.
Join a Study Group for Collaborative Learning
Show steps
Engage with fellow students through a study group to discuss the sonatas, share insights, and enhance your understanding through peer-to-peer learning.
Show steps
-
Reach out to classmates or join online forums to connect with potential study partners.
-
Establish regular meeting times and set clear goals for each session.
-
Take turns presenting and discussing different aspects of the sonatas.
Analyze and Perform Selected Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Enhance your comprehension by selecting a few sonatas and thoroughly analyzing their musical structure, harmonies, and technical demands. Practice performing them to deepen your understanding and develop your musical skills.
Show steps
-
Choose specific sonatas for in-depth analysis.
-
Break down the sonatas into smaller sections and analyze their harmonic progressions, melodic lines, and rhythmic patterns.
-
Practice performing the sonatas slowly and carefully, focusing on accuracy and interpretation.
Write a Comparative Essay on Two Sonatas
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding and analytical skills by writing a comparative essay that examines two sonatas, highlighting their similarities, differences, and musical significance.
Show steps
-
Select two sonatas for comparison.
-
Conduct a thorough analysis of each sonata, considering their musical elements, form, and historical context.
-
Write an essay that compares and contrasts the two sonatas, discussing their unique characteristics and contributions to Beethoven's piano music.
Contribute to the Beethoven Piano Sonata Database
Show steps
Engage in meaningful learning by contributing to the creation of a comprehensive database on Beethoven's piano sonatas. This involves researching, compiling, and organizing information related to the sonatas in a collaborative online platform.
Show steps
-
Join the Beethoven Piano Sonata Database project.
-
Research specific sonatas and gather relevant information, such as performance history, musical analysis, and historical background.
-
Contribute your findings to the database, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Review Music Theory Basics
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of basic music theory concepts, including scales, chords, and rhythm, to enhance your understanding of Beethoven's sonatas.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review scales and their construction.
- Practice identifying chords and their inversions.
- Analyze the rhythmic patterns in simple pieces.
Review Beethoven's Musical Style and Historical Context
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of Beethoven's musical style and the historical context during which he composed his sonatas to enhance your understanding of the pieces explored in this course.
Browse courses on
Historical Context
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review key characteristics of Beethoven's musical style, such as his use of dissonance, development sections, and rhythmic innovations.
- Explore the historical context of Beethoven's time, including the cultural and political influences that shaped his musical journey.
Read 'Beethoven's Piano Sonatas: A Short Companion' by Charles Rosen
Show steps
Gain additional insights into Beethoven's piano sonatas by reading this comprehensive guide, offering historical context, analytical perspectives, and detailed discussions of each sonata.
View
Beethoven's Piano Sonatas
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow the book from a library.
- Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key passages.
- Refer to the book throughout the course to supplement your understanding.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore Beethoven's Piano Sonatas with Online Tutorials
Show steps
Supplement your learning by seeking out online tutorials that provide in-depth analysis and performance insights into Beethoven's piano sonatas.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for reputable online sources offering tutorials on Beethoven's sonatas.
- Choose tutorials that cover the specific sonatas included in Part 3.
- Take notes and practice the techniques and interpretations demonstrated in the tutorials.
Join a Study Group for Collaborative Learning
Show steps
Engage with fellow students through a study group to discuss the sonatas, share insights, and enhance your understanding through peer-to-peer learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to classmates or join online forums to connect with potential study partners.
- Establish regular meeting times and set clear goals for each session.
- Take turns presenting and discussing different aspects of the sonatas.
Analyze and Perform Selected Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Enhance your comprehension by selecting a few sonatas and thoroughly analyzing their musical structure, harmonies, and technical demands. Practice performing them to deepen your understanding and develop your musical skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose specific sonatas for in-depth analysis.
- Break down the sonatas into smaller sections and analyze their harmonic progressions, melodic lines, and rhythmic patterns.
- Practice performing the sonatas slowly and carefully, focusing on accuracy and interpretation.
Write a Comparative Essay on Two Sonatas
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding and analytical skills by writing a comparative essay that examines two sonatas, highlighting their similarities, differences, and musical significance.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select two sonatas for comparison.
- Conduct a thorough analysis of each sonata, considering their musical elements, form, and historical context.
- Write an essay that compares and contrasts the two sonatas, discussing their unique characteristics and contributions to Beethoven's piano music.
Contribute to the Beethoven Piano Sonata Database
Show steps
Engage in meaningful learning by contributing to the creation of a comprehensive database on Beethoven's piano sonatas. This involves researching, compiling, and organizing information related to the sonatas in a collaborative online platform.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join the Beethoven Piano Sonata Database project.
- Research specific sonatas and gather relevant information, such as performance history, musical analysis, and historical background.
- Contribute your findings to the database, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Career center
Learners who complete Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
As a Music Teacher, you will provide music instruction to students of all ages and skill levels. You may teach a variety of instruments, including the piano, and you will need to be able to demonstrate proficiency in playing the instrument. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help build a foundation in music theory and piano performance, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Teachers.
Piano Tuner
Piano Tuner
As a Piano Tuner, you will be responsible for tuning and repairing pianos. You will need to have a good understanding of the mechanics of a piano and be able to make adjustments to the strings and other components. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop a deeper understanding of the piano, which can be helpful for aspiring Piano Tuners.
Music Arranger
Music Arranger
As a Music Arranger, you will adapt and arrange existing music for different instruments or ensembles. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to use a variety of instruments and techniques to create your arrangements. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your musical creativity and arrangement skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Arrangers.
Music Composer
Music Composer
As a Music Composer, you will create original music compositions. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to use a variety of instruments and techniques to create your compositions. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your musical creativity and composition skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Composers.
Music Critic
Music Critic
As a Music Critic, you will write reviews and articles about music performances and recordings. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to write clearly and concisely. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and writing skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Critics.
Music Producer
Music Producer
As a Music Producer, you will oversee the recording, mixing, and mastering of music. You will need to have a strong understanding of music production techniques and be able to work with a variety of artists and musicians. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music production skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Producers.
Music Librarian
Music Librarian
As a Music Librarian, you will manage and catalog music collections. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to use a variety of library resources. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and library skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Librarians.
Music Historian
Music Historian
As a Music Historian, you will research and write about the history of music. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to use a variety of research methods. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and research skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Historians.
Music Educator
Music Educator
As a Music Educator, you will teach music to students of all ages. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to use a variety of teaching methods. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and teaching skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Educators.
Music Journalist
Music Journalist
As a Music Journalist, you will write articles and reviews about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to write clearly and concisely. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and writing skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Journalists.
Music Professor
Music Professor
As a Music Professor, you will teach music at a college or university. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to conduct research. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and research skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Professors.
Music Publisher
Music Publisher
As a Music Publisher, you will acquire and publish musical works. You will need to have a strong understanding of the music industry and be able to work with a variety of artists and songwriters. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music industry knowledge and publishing skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Publishers.
Music Therapist
Music Therapist
As a Music Therapist, you will use music to help people improve their physical and mental health. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to work with a variety of clients. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and therapeutic skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Therapists.
Music Promoter
Music Promoter
As a Music Promoter, you will promote and organize music events. You will need to have a strong understanding of the music industry and be able to work with a variety of artists and venues. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music industry knowledge and promotional skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Promoters.
Music Director
Music Director
As a Music Director, you will lead and conduct musical ensembles. You will need to have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to work with a variety of musicians. Courses like Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3 can help you develop your music theory knowledge and conducting skills, which can be helpful for aspiring Music Directors.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/gtb6jc/exploring
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 3.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical structure, historical context, and performance practice. It valuable resource for students and performers alike.
Save
Provides a concise and accessible overview of Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical style, historical context, and performance practice. It good starting point for students who are new to Beethoven's music.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Beethoven's life, music, and legacy. It includes essays by leading scholars on a variety of topics, including Beethoven's musical style, his historical context, and his influence on later composers.
Provides a detailed history of Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical style, historical context, and performance practice. It valuable resource for students and performers who want to learn more about the development of Beethoven's music.
Provides a detailed analysis of each of Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical structure, technical challenges, and performance considerations. It valuable resource for students and performers who want to deepen their understanding of Beethoven's music.
Provides a comprehensive guide to Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical style, historical context, and performance practice. It valuable resource for students and performers who want to learn more about Beethoven's music.
Save
Provides a detailed analysis of each of Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical structure, technical challenges, and performance considerations. It valuable resource for students and performers who want to deepen their understanding of Beethoven's music.
Save
Provides a historical overview of Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical style, historical context, and performance practice. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the development of Beethoven's music.
Provides a philosophical interpretation of Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical structure, technical challenges, and performance considerations. It valuable resource for students and performers who want to deepen their understanding of Beethoven's music.
Save
Provides a sociological perspective on Beethoven's piano sonatas, discussing their musical structure, technical challenges, and performance considerations. It valuable resource for students and performers who want to deepen their understanding of Beethoven's music.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/gtb6jc/exploring
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Curtis Institute of Music
Instructor
Jonathan Biss
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Good to know
Provides a deep dive into a specific set of Beethoven's piano sonatas, tapping into a niche interest for classical music enthusiasts and performers
Taught by Jonathan Biss, an internationally renowned concert pianist and pedagogue, providing learners with access to high-quality instruction from an expert in the field
Suitable for learners of all experience levels, making it accessible to a wide audience, including beginners and enthusiasts alike
Focuses on exploring specific sonatas, rather than providing a comprehensive overview of Beethoven's entire piano sonata repertoire, potentially limiting its appeal to those seeking a broader understanding of the composer's work
Relies on external resources, such as access to Jonathan Biss's Beethoven Sonatas recordings, which may require additional subscriptions or purchases
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