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Thomas Forrest Kelly
While Italian opera set the standard in the Baroque era, German composer George Frederic Handel quickly gained popularity for his oratorios, which put operatic techniques to work in the service of sacred music. Handel's Messiah premiered in Dublin on April 13, 1742, and remains popular to this day. Harvard's Thomas Forrest Kelly (Morton B. Knafel Professor of Music) guides learners through Messiah's musical highlights, while detailing Handel's composition process, the preparations and rehearsals, and the premiere performance.
Read more
While Italian opera set the standard in the Baroque era, German composer George Frederic Handel quickly gained popularity for his oratorios, which put operatic techniques to work in the service of sacred music. Handel's Messiah premiered in Dublin on April 13, 1742, and remains popular to this day. Harvard's Thomas Forrest Kelly (Morton B. Knafel Professor of Music) guides learners through Messiah's musical highlights, while detailing Handel's composition process, the preparations and rehearsals, and the premiere performance.
Read more
While Italian opera set the standard in the Baroque era, German composer George Frederic Handel quickly gained popularity for his oratorios, which put operatic techniques to work in the service of sacred music. Handel's Messiah premiered in Dublin on April 13, 1742, and remains popular to this day. Harvard's Thomas Forrest Kelly (Morton B. Knafel Professor of Music) guides learners through Messiah's musical highlights, while detailing Handel's composition process, the preparations and rehearsals, and the premiere performance.
Learners in this module of First Nights need not have any prior musical experience. In this unit, you will learn the basics of musical form and analysis, the genres and styles used in Messiah , the circumstances of its first performance, and its subsequent history.
Additional First Nights Modules: Monteverdi's L'Orfeo and the Birth of Opera Handel's Messiah and Baroque Oratorio Beethoven's "Ninth Symphony" Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique and Program Music in the 19th Century Igor Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring: Modernism, Ballet, and Riots
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- Get to know some wonderful music
- Identify genres and subgenres of 18th-century opera and oratorio
- Understand text-music relationships in the baroque period
- Distinguish basic aspects of musical texture and musical form
- Appreciate cultural context and performance circumstances of handel's messiah
- Get to know some wonderful music
- Identify genres and subgenres of 18th-century opera and oratorio
- Understand text-music relationships in the baroque period
- Distinguish basic aspects of musical texture and musical form
- Appreciate cultural context and performance circumstances of handel's messiah
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Lays a solid foundation for learners new to topics like musical form and analysis
Looks at how Handel's oratorios fit within the operatic techniques of the Baroque era
Explores the influence of cultural context on Handel's Messiah in its initial performance
Requires no musical background to jump in, making it accessible for many learners
Taught by Thomas Forrest Kelly, the Morton B. Knafel Professor of Music at Harvard
Takes on Baroque Oratorio, with Handel's Messiah serving as a central example
Save this course
Save First Nights - Handel's Messiah and Baroque Oratorio to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Messiah and baroque oratorio course
Students rave about this course ("wonderful contribution to the world of MOOCs", "I was very happy at a time when there wasn't much to be happy about"). Professor Kelly skillfully explains complex musical structures and offers interesting cultural and historical context, which makes this perfect for any music lover ("everyone").
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 First Nights - Handel's Messiah and Baroque Oratorio with these
activities:
Read Handel's Messiah Libretto
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the text and its relationship to Handel's music.
View
The Messiah : an oratorio for four-part chorus...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of the libretto.
-
Read through the libretto, paying attention to the structure, themes, and language.
-
Identify the key themes and motifs of the libretto.
-
Consider how the libretto's text informs Handel's musical choices.
Follow Online Tutorials on Baroque Music
Show steps
Supplement your learning with expert insights and perspectives on Baroque music.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
-
Search for online tutorials or courses on Baroque music.
-
Choose tutorials that cover topics relevant to your interests.
-
Follow the tutorials attentively and take notes.
Create a Playlist of Baroque Music
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of the Baroque period by listening to a variety of musical pieces.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
-
Research Baroque composers and their works.
-
Select pieces that represent different styles and genres.
-
Create a playlist on a streaming service or music player.
-
Listen to the playlist and take notes on your impressions.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Ear Training Exercises
Show steps
Improve your ability to identify and analyze musical elements, such as intervals, chords, and rhythms.
Browse courses on
Ear Training
Show steps
-
Use an online ear training tool or app.
-
Start with simple exercises and gradually increase difficulty.
-
Practice regularly to improve your accuracy and speed.
Attend a Baroque Music Concert
Show steps
Experience the power and emotion of Baroque music firsthand.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
-
Check local concert listings for upcoming Baroque music performances.
-
Purchase tickets and attend the concert.
-
Pay attention to the musical elements and techniques used.
Design a Baroque-Inspired Poster
Show steps
Combine your understanding of Baroque music with your creativity to produce a visually engaging piece.
Browse courses on
Baroque Art
Show steps
-
Research Baroque art and design principles.
-
Choose a theme or concept inspired by Handel's Messiah.
-
Design and create a poster using appropriate colors, fonts, and imagery.
Write a Blog Post on Baroque Music
Show steps
Share your knowledge and insights about Baroque music with others.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
-
Choose a specific aspect or topic of Baroque music to focus on.
-
Research the topic thoroughly.
-
Write a well-organized and informative blog post.
-
Publish your blog post on a relevant platform.
Read Handel's Messiah Libretto
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the text and its relationship to Handel's music.
View
The Messiah : an oratorio for four-part chorus...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of the libretto.
- Read through the libretto, paying attention to the structure, themes, and language.
- Identify the key themes and motifs of the libretto.
- Consider how the libretto's text informs Handel's musical choices.
Follow Online Tutorials on Baroque Music
Show steps
Supplement your learning with expert insights and perspectives on Baroque music.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online tutorials or courses on Baroque music.
- Choose tutorials that cover topics relevant to your interests.
- Follow the tutorials attentively and take notes.
Create a Playlist of Baroque Music
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of the Baroque period by listening to a variety of musical pieces.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research Baroque composers and their works.
- Select pieces that represent different styles and genres.
- Create a playlist on a streaming service or music player.
- Listen to the playlist and take notes on your impressions.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Ear Training Exercises
Show steps
Improve your ability to identify and analyze musical elements, such as intervals, chords, and rhythms.
Browse courses on
Ear Training
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use an online ear training tool or app.
- Start with simple exercises and gradually increase difficulty.
- Practice regularly to improve your accuracy and speed.
Attend a Baroque Music Concert
Show steps
Experience the power and emotion of Baroque music firsthand.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Check local concert listings for upcoming Baroque music performances.
- Purchase tickets and attend the concert.
- Pay attention to the musical elements and techniques used.
Design a Baroque-Inspired Poster
Show steps
Combine your understanding of Baroque music with your creativity to produce a visually engaging piece.
Browse courses on
Baroque Art
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research Baroque art and design principles.
- Choose a theme or concept inspired by Handel's Messiah.
- Design and create a poster using appropriate colors, fonts, and imagery.
Write a Blog Post on Baroque Music
Show steps
Share your knowledge and insights about Baroque music with others.
Browse courses on
Baroque Music
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific aspect or topic of Baroque music to focus on.
- Research the topic thoroughly.
- Write a well-organized and informative blog post.
- Publish your blog post on a relevant platform.
Career center
Learners who complete First Nights - Handel's Messiah and Baroque Oratorio will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Music Critic
Music Critic
Music Critics write about music and music performances, often for newspapers, magazines, or websites. To do well in this career, a background in music is helpful, as this enables you to analyze and interpret music objectively. This course will help you to understand basic aspects of musical texture and musical form, which are essential for the analysis and appreciation of music. Additionally, it will help you to get to know some wonderful music, which will give you a broader perspective on the field.
Music Professor
Music Professor
Music Professors teach music at colleges and universities. They may also conduct research on music theory, history, or performance. A PhD in music is typically required for this career. This course is a good starting point for those who wish to pursue a career in music academia because it helps build a foundation in musical analysis and appreciation.
Music Director
Music Director
Music Directors lead musical ensembles, such as orchestras, choirs, or bands. They are responsible for selecting the music to be performed, rehearsing the ensemble, and conducting performances. A background in music and conducting is essential for this career. This course can be helpful for those who wish to pursue a career in music directing because it helps develop an understanding of musical form and texture, as well as the cultural context of music.
Oratorio Singer
Oratorio Singer
Oratorio Singers perform in oratorios, which are large-scale musical works that are typically performed by a chorus and orchestra. They must have a strong vocal technique and a deep understanding of music. This course can help Oratorio Singers to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of oratorio.
Opera Singer
Opera Singer
Opera Singers perform in operas, which are dramatic works that combine music, singing, and acting. They must have a strong vocal technique and a deep understanding of music. This course can help Opera Singers to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of opera.
Music Producer
Music Producer
Music Producers oversee the production of music recordings. They work with musicians, engineers, and other professionals to create a polished and professional-sounding recording. A background in music is helpful for this career, as it enables you to understand the technical and artistic aspects of music production. This course can help Music Producers to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
Music Agent
Music Agent
Music Agents represent musicians and help them to book concerts, negotiate contracts, and manage their careers. A background in music is helpful for this career, as it enables you to understand the needs of musicians and the music industry. This course can help Music Agents to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
Music Publisher
Music Publisher
Music Publishers acquire, edit, and publish musical compositions. They may also work with composers to develop and promote their work. A background in music is helpful for this career, as it enables you to understand the needs of composers and the music industry. This course can help Music Publishers to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
Music Historian
Music Historian
Music Historians research and write about the history of music. They may also teach music history at colleges and universities. A PhD in music history is typically required for this career. This course is a good starting point for those who wish to pursue a career in music history because it helps build a foundation in musical analysis and appreciation.
Music Librarian
Music Librarian
Music Librarians manage and organize music collections in libraries. They may also provide reference and instruction services to patrons. A background in music is helpful for this career, as it enables you to understand the needs of music users. This course can help Music Librarians to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
Music Therapist
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, such as hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. A background in music is helpful for this career, as it enables you to understand the therapeutic effects of music. This course can help Music Therapists to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
Music Journalist
Music Journalist
Music Journalists write about music for newspapers, magazines, or websites. They may also interview musicians, review concerts, and write feature articles. A background in music is helpful for this career, as it enables you to write about music in an informed and engaging way. This course can help Music Journalists to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
Music Teachers teach music to students of all ages. They may work in schools, private studios, or community centers. A background in music is essential for this career, as it enables you to teach students about the fundamentals of music. This course can help Music Teachers to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
Music Ethnomusicologist
Music Ethnomusicologist
Music Ethnomusicologists study the music of different cultures. They may conduct fieldwork, record and transcribe music, and write about the cultural context of music. A PhD in ethnomusicology is typically required for this career. This course can be helpful for those who wish to pursue a career in music ethnomusicology because it helps develop an understanding of the cultural context of music.
Music Archivist
Music Archivist
Music Archivists manage and preserve music collections in libraries and archives. They may also provide reference and instruction services to patrons. A background in music is helpful for this career, as it enables you to understand the needs of music users. This course can help Music Archivists to develop their understanding of the Baroque period, which is a key period in the history of music.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/j0vll9/first
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
First Nights - Handel's Messiah and Baroque Oratorio.
Detailed study of Handel's Messiah, providing a historical and musical analysis of the work.
Save
A comprehensive biography of Handel that provides insights into his life, work, and the cultural context in which he lived.
An examination of the oratorio genre in the Baroque period, focusing on its origins, development, and major composers.
Save
Detailed study of Handel's oratorios, including Messiah.
Comprehensive biography of Handel, providing a detailed account of his life and work.
Study of the Baroque oratorio, including Handel's Messiah.
Save
Guide to performing Handel's Messiah, providing practical advice on the work's music and text.
Comprehensive overview of the Baroque period, including music, art, and literature.
Save
Comprehensive handbook on Baroque music, providing a detailed overview of the period's music and composers.
Study of the oratorios of Handel and Bach, providing a detailed comparison of the two composers' works.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/j0vll9/first
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Effort
3 to 5 hours per week for 2 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructor
Thomas Forrest Kelly
Session
December 6, 2023
- December 4, 2024
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Classical Works. It's comprised of five courses:
- First Nights - Monteverdi’s L’Orfeo and the Birth of Opera
- First Nights - Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring: Modernism, Ballet, and Riots
- First Nights - Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique and Program Music in the 19th Century
- First Nights - Handel's Messiah and Baroque Oratorio (viewing)
- First Nights - Beethoven's 9th Symphony and the 19th Century Orchestra
Good to know
Lays a solid foundation for learners new to topics like musical form and analysis
Looks at how Handel's oratorios fit within the operatic techniques of the Baroque era
Explores the influence of cultural context on Handel's Messiah in its initial performance
Requires no musical background to jump in, making it accessible for many learners
Taught by Thomas Forrest Kelly, the Morton B. Knafel Professor of Music at Harvard
Takes on Baroque Oratorio, with Handel's Messiah serving as a central example
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