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Matthew Bengtson
In this course, learners will review sonata form and learn how the piano sonata was taken to new heights by Ludwig van Beethoven. We’ll discover together how the generation that followed interpreted Beethoven’s achievements and put them into practice in their own unique ways. From there, we will explore the “War of the Romantics”: the variety of formal structures for Romantic sonatas (both traditional and progressive) and the major repertoire of this era. You’ll hear some of the important pianos of the time, and understand the differences between Viennese and English/French traditions of piano music.
Read more
In this course, learners will review sonata form and learn how the piano sonata was taken to new heights by Ludwig van Beethoven. We’ll discover together how the generation that followed interpreted Beethoven’s achievements and put them into practice in their own unique ways. From there, we will explore the “War of the Romantics”: the variety of formal structures for Romantic sonatas (both traditional and progressive) and the major repertoire of this era. You’ll hear some of the important pianos of the time, and understand the differences between Viennese and English/French traditions of piano music.
Read more
In this course, learners will review sonata form and learn how the piano sonata was taken to new heights by Ludwig van Beethoven. We’ll discover together how the generation that followed interpreted Beethoven’s achievements and put them into practice in their own unique ways. From there, we will explore the “War of the Romantics”: the variety of formal structures for Romantic sonatas (both traditional and progressive) and the major repertoire of this era. You’ll hear some of the important pianos of the time, and understand the differences between Viennese and English/French traditions of piano music.
This course was filmed at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, among other locations, to showcase the depth of the sonata repertoire and the instruments that contributed to its history.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/h5ofld/the
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What's inside
Syllabus
Setting the Stage
In the first week, you'll be introduced to the course structure and to the fundamentals surrounding sonata form and the history of the genre.
Read more
Syllabus
Setting the Stage
In the first week, you'll be introduced to the course structure and to the fundamentals surrounding sonata form and the history of the genre.
Read more
Ludwig van Beethoven
This week focuses solely on Ludwig van Beethoven. We will discuss matters of sonata theory, the developing piano, and the way that the piano sonata genre was transformed through his innovations. We will consider his sonata repertoire across three major periods.
Romantics
This week focuses on Romantic composers following Beethoven. First we consider the German tradition - Schubert, Mendelssohn, Schumann, and Brahms - and then the great pianist-virtuosi Chopin and Liszt. Throughout the week we will consider both traditional and innovative approaches to constructing Romantic piano sonatas.
Course Conclusion and Honors Track Formal Analysis
For more advanced learners, an Honors Formal Analysis is available in this final week (not required for completion of the course).
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores history of sonata form and the piano sonata
Taught by Matthew Bengtson, a recognized instructor in music
Reviews Beethoven's influences on piano sonata and the musical era that followed
Assumes the learner has basic knowledge of musical terms and concepts
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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 The Piano Sonata: Beethoven and the Romantics with these
activities:
Review Music Theory Fundamentals
Show steps
Strengthen your foundational music theory knowledge to enhance your comprehension of piano sonatas and their structural elements
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
-
Review basic concepts such as scales, chords, and intervals
-
Practice identifying harmonic progressions and rhythmic patterns
Follow Online Tutorials on Piano Sonata Analysis
Show steps
Supplement your learning by exploring online tutorials to reinforce your understanding of sonata form analysis techniques
Browse courses on
Sonata Form
Show steps
-
Identify reliable and reputable online sources
-
Select tutorials that cover specific aspects of sonata analysis
-
Follow the instructions and complete the practice exercises
Read 'The Piano Sonatas of Ludwig van Beethoven' by Charles Rosen
Show steps
Gain in-depth knowledge and insights into Beethoven's piano sonatas to enhance your understanding of their historical significance and complexity
View
The Joy of Playing, the Joy of Thinking:...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read designated chapters based on the course schedule
-
Take notes on key concepts and analytical insights
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice Listening to Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Immerse yourself in the sonatas by listening to the masters to effectively learn and identify various characteristics
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
-
Find diverse recordings of the sonatas
-
Pay attention to the structure and development of each piece
-
Identify recurring themes, motifs, and harmonies
Join a Study Group for Piano Sonata Analysis
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to analyze piano sonatas, offering diverse perspectives and fostering a deeper understanding of their structure and musicality
Browse courses on
Sonata Form
Show steps
-
Find or form a study group with other passionate learners
-
Select a sonata to analyze together
-
Share insights and interpretations during group discussions
Attend a Workshop on Piano Sonata Performance
Show steps
Engage with experts and delve deeper into the intricacies of piano sonata performance to enhance your understanding and skills
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
-
Find a workshop that aligns with your interests
-
Register and attend the workshop
-
Take notes and actively participate in discussions
Write an Essay on the Influence of Romanticism on Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Delve into the impact of Romanticism on the evolution of piano sonatas, solidifying your understanding of their historical context and aesthetic characteristics
Browse courses on
Romanticism
Show steps
-
Research the historical and cultural context of Romanticism
-
Analyze specific piano sonatas composed during the Romantic era
-
Write a well-structured essay that presents your findings and insights
Compose a Short Piano Piece in Sonata Form
Show steps
Apply your understanding of sonata form by composing your own piece, strengthening your grasp of its structure and elements
Browse courses on
Sonata Form
Show steps
-
Review the principles of sonata form
-
Sketch out the basic structure of your piece
-
Develop your themes and motifs
-
Write out the full score
Review Music Theory Fundamentals
Show steps
Strengthen your foundational music theory knowledge to enhance your comprehension of piano sonatas and their structural elements
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic concepts such as scales, chords, and intervals
- Practice identifying harmonic progressions and rhythmic patterns
Follow Online Tutorials on Piano Sonata Analysis
Show steps
Supplement your learning by exploring online tutorials to reinforce your understanding of sonata form analysis techniques
Browse courses on
Sonata Form
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reliable and reputable online sources
- Select tutorials that cover specific aspects of sonata analysis
- Follow the instructions and complete the practice exercises
Read 'The Piano Sonatas of Ludwig van Beethoven' by Charles Rosen
Show steps
Gain in-depth knowledge and insights into Beethoven's piano sonatas to enhance your understanding of their historical significance and complexity
View
The Joy of Playing, the Joy of Thinking:...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read designated chapters based on the course schedule
- Take notes on key concepts and analytical insights
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice Listening to Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Immerse yourself in the sonatas by listening to the masters to effectively learn and identify various characteristics
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find diverse recordings of the sonatas
- Pay attention to the structure and development of each piece
- Identify recurring themes, motifs, and harmonies
Join a Study Group for Piano Sonata Analysis
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to analyze piano sonatas, offering diverse perspectives and fostering a deeper understanding of their structure and musicality
Browse courses on
Sonata Form
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find or form a study group with other passionate learners
- Select a sonata to analyze together
- Share insights and interpretations during group discussions
Attend a Workshop on Piano Sonata Performance
Show steps
Engage with experts and delve deeper into the intricacies of piano sonata performance to enhance your understanding and skills
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop that aligns with your interests
- Register and attend the workshop
- Take notes and actively participate in discussions
Write an Essay on the Influence of Romanticism on Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Delve into the impact of Romanticism on the evolution of piano sonatas, solidifying your understanding of their historical context and aesthetic characteristics
Browse courses on
Romanticism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the historical and cultural context of Romanticism
- Analyze specific piano sonatas composed during the Romantic era
- Write a well-structured essay that presents your findings and insights
Compose a Short Piano Piece in Sonata Form
Show steps
Apply your understanding of sonata form by composing your own piece, strengthening your grasp of its structure and elements
Browse courses on
Sonata Form
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the principles of sonata form
- Sketch out the basic structure of your piece
- Develop your themes and motifs
- Write out the full score
Career center
Learners who complete The Piano Sonata: Beethoven and the Romantics will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Musician
Musician
Musicians perform instrumental or vocal music, either as soloists or as members of a group. They may compose, arrange, or orchestrate music, and may also teach music. This course may be useful for Musicians who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time.
Music Producer
Music Producer
Music Producers oversee the recording and production of music. They may also work with musicians to develop their sound and create new music. This course may be useful for Music Producers who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the music they are producing and to work with musicians to create new and innovative music.
Music Director
Music Director
Music Directors oversee the musical aspects of a performance or production. They may work with musicians to develop their sound and create new music. They may also conduct the orchestra or choir. This course may be useful for Music Directors who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the music they are directing and to work with musicians to create new and innovative performances.
Music Librarian
Music Librarian
Music Librarians are responsible for organizing and maintaining music collections in libraries. They may also provide reference services to patrons and assist with music programming. This course may be useful for Music Librarians who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand and catalog music collections.
Music Critic
Music Critic
Music Critics write reviews and articles about music performances, recordings, and compositions. They may also give lectures or teach classes on music. This course may be useful for Music Critics who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand and write about the piano sonata.
Music Therapist
Music Therapist
Music Therapists use music to help people with a variety of needs, including physical, emotional, and cognitive. They may work with people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. This course may be useful for Music Therapists who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the music they are using in therapy and to work with clients to create new and innovative therapeutic experiences.
Music Journalist
Music Journalist
Music Journalists write articles and reviews about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They may also interview musicians and attend concerts and other music events. This course may be useful for Music Journalists who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand and write about the piano sonata.
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
Music Teachers instruct students in the fundamentals of music, including music theory, history, and performance. They may also teach students to play specific instruments or to sing. This course may be useful for Music Teachers who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better teach their students about the piano sonata and its place in music history.
Music Composer
Music Composer
Music Composers create new music. They may write music for a variety of purposes, including concerts, films, and television shows. This course may be useful for Music Composers who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the structure and form of music, and to compose new and innovative music.
Music Professor
Music Professor
Music Professors teach music at colleges and universities. They may also conduct research in music theory, history, or performance. This course may be useful for Music Professors who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better teach their students about the piano sonata and its place in music history.
Music Arranger
Music Arranger
Music Arrangers adapt existing music for different instruments or ensembles. They may also create new arrangements of music for specific purposes, such as for a performance or a recording. This course may be useful for Music Arrangers who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the structure and form of music, and to create new and innovative arrangements.
Piano Teacher
Piano Teacher
Piano Teachers teach students how to play the piano. They may also teach students about music theory and history. This course may be useful for Piano Teachers who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better teach their students about the piano sonata and its place in music history.
Piano Technician
Piano Technician
Piano Technicians tune and repair pianos. They may also work with piano manufacturers to develop new and innovative pianos. This course may be useful for Piano Technicians who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the pianos they are working on and to repair and tune them to the highest standards.
Piano Salesperson
Piano Salesperson
Piano Salespersons sell pianos to customers. They may also provide information about the different types of pianos available and help customers to choose the right piano for their needs. This course may be useful for Piano Salespersons who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the pianos they are selling and to provide customers with the best possible advice.
Piano Manufacturer
Piano Manufacturer
Piano Manufacturers design, build, and sell pianos. They may also work with piano technicians to develop new and innovative pianos. This course may be useful for Piano Manufacturers who want to learn more about the history and theory of the piano sonata, and how it has been used by composers over time. This knowledge can help them to better understand the pianos they are manufacturing and to design and build pianos that meet the needs of musicians.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/h5ofld/the
Reading list
We've selected six 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
The Piano Sonata: Beethoven and the Romantics.
This guide offers detailed analysis and performance suggestions for Schubert's piano sonatas, providing valuable insights into their structure, style, and interpretation.
This comprehensive guide to the analysis of Romantic music provides a structured approach to understanding the formal and harmonic structures of Romantic compositions, including piano sonatas.
Save
Offers a detailed examination of Liszt's piano works, exploring their technical brilliance, expressive range, and historical significance within the Romantic era.
Save
This comprehensive overview of Brahms's life and work includes essays on his piano sonatas, providing historical, analytical, and interpretive perspectives.
Save
This guide offers practical advice on historically informed performance practices for pianists, providing insights into instruments, techniques, and repertoire from the Baroque to the Romantic eras.
Bach's monumental collection of preludes and fugues provides a comprehensive study of keyboard technique and musical structure, offering valuable insights into the foundations of Western classical music and the evolution of keyboard sonatas.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/h5ofld/the
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Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructor
Matthew Bengtson
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Exploring Piano Literature: The Piano Sonata. It's comprised of three courses:
- The Piano Sonata: Beethoven and the Romantics (viewing)
- The Piano Sonata: Origins to Mozart
- The Piano Sonata: Russian and 20th-21st Century Composers
Good to know
Explores history of sonata form and the piano sonata
Taught by Matthew Bengtson, a recognized instructor in music
Reviews Beethoven's influences on piano sonata and the musical era that followed
Assumes the learner has basic knowledge of musical terms and concepts
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