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Jonathan Biss
Please join us for Part 4 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas course, taught by Curtis faculty member and extraordinary concert artist, Jonathan Biss. This course is new and contains separate sets of lectures and sonatas that we not previously discussed. Specifically, in Part 4, we will cover Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Op. 2, No. 2, Op. 10, No. 3, Op. 28 and Op. 110. As with the other three Beethoven courses, it is not necessary to have taken the previous Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas courses. We think you will be perfectly comfortable to start learning with Part 4, if you wish and go from here. There is always the option to go back to earlier parts at any time. Between these courses, there exists a large amount of additional resources and learning that might be helpful as you embark on Part 4. We certainly encourage you to take Parts 1, 2 and 3, if you have not yet. In the meantime, enjoy the class and Part 4 of Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Welcome to Class!
We are glad that you have joined us for Part 4 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas course, taught by Curtis faculty member and extraordinary concert artist, Jonathan Biss! This course is considered Part 4, with new and separate sets of lectures. Specifically, in Part 4, we will cover Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Op. 2, No. 2, Op. 10, No. 3, Op. 28 and Op. 110. As with the other three Beethoven courses, it is not necessary to have taken the previous Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas courses. We think you will be perfectly comfortable to start learning with Part 4, if you wish and go from here. There is always the option to go back to earlier parts at any time. Between these courses, there exists a large amount of additional resources and learning that might be helpful as you embark on Part 4. We certainly encourage you to take Parts 1, 2 and 3, if you have not yet. In the meantime, enjoy the class and Part 4 of Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas.
Read more
Syllabus
Welcome to Class!
We are glad that you have joined us for Part 4 of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas course, taught by Curtis faculty member and extraordinary concert artist, Jonathan Biss! This course is considered Part 4, with new and separate sets of lectures. Specifically, in Part 4, we will cover Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Op. 2, No. 2, Op. 10, No. 3, Op. 28 and Op. 110. As with the other three Beethoven courses, it is not necessary to have taken the previous Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas courses. We think you will be perfectly comfortable to start learning with Part 4, if you wish and go from here. There is always the option to go back to earlier parts at any time. Between these courses, there exists a large amount of additional resources and learning that might be helpful as you embark on Part 4. We certainly encourage you to take Parts 1, 2 and 3, if you have not yet. In the meantime, enjoy the class and Part 4 of Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas.
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Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Appeals to students at any level interested in classical music or music history, as well as musicians
Provides an opportunity to learn from Curtis faculty member and recognized concert artist, Jonathan Biss
Covers Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Op. 2, No. 2, Op. 10, No. 3, Op. 28 and Op. 110
Is not necessary to have taken previous parts of Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas
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Reviews summary
Deep dive into beethoven sonatas
According to learners, this course is an absolutely brilliant and highly recommended exploration of specific Beethoven piano sonatas. Many highlight Jonathan Biss as an incredibly insightful guide and superb lecturer who provides deep musical analysis from a performing artist's perspective. Students appreciate his ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, making the course well-structured and easy to follow despite tackling challenging works. While the course material is highly valuable for serious Beethoven lovers and musicians, some reviewers note that the pace was a little fast and it might be too technical for a casual listener without some musical background.
Best for musicians and enthusiasts
"If you're a musician or serious student, you'll probably get more out of it. Analysis of Op. 110 was dense."
"It might be too technical for a casual listener like me. I found myself rewinding a lot."
"Solid course... Nothing revolutionary if you're already very familiar with these sonatas, but a good refresher and different perspective."
Provides profound insights into the sonatas
"Biss provides such deep musical analysis while making it accessible... Worth every minute."
"The discussions of the sonata structures and harmonic language were eye-opening."
"Masterclass from Jonathan Biss. His analysis of Op. 110 is profound and really opened my ears to new things."
Taught by insightful performing artist
"Another excellent installment! Jonathan Biss is an incredibly insightful guide to these complex sonatas. His explanations are clear and his passion is infectious."
"Absolutely brilliant. Biss provides such deep musical analysis while making it accessible."
"Fantastic course! Jonathan Biss is a superb lecturer, combining the knowledge of a scholar with the perspective of a performing artist."
Pace might feel fast for some learners
"Sometimes I felt the pace was a little fast, and while it says you don't need previous parts, having some background helps..."
"Some parts, especially the more technical theory, required pausing and thinking, which is fine but be prepared."
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 4 with these
activities:
Review of Basic Music Theory
Show steps
Review the basics of music theory, such as scales, chords, and rhythms, to strengthen your understanding of Beethoven's piano sonatas.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
-
Review your notes from a previous music theory course or read a textbook
-
Practice identifying intervals, chords, and scales
-
Analyze simple pieces of music using music theory concepts
Review how to perform Moonlight Sonata 1st movement
Show steps
Polishing your piano performance of the Moonlight Sonata the 1st movement is a great way to refresh your piano skills.
Browse courses on
Piano
Show steps
-
Warm up and stretch fingers on piano
-
Review Sheet Music for 1st movement
-
Play scales and arpeggios
Volunteer at a Piano Recital
Show steps
Volunteer at a piano recital to gain exposure to live performances of Beethoven's sonatas and interact with other piano enthusiasts.
Show steps
-
Contact a local concert hall or music organization and offer your help
-
Arrive at the recital venue early and assist with setup or ushering
-
Listen to the recital and engage with other audience members
-
Help with cleanup and tear-down after the recital
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Sight-Reading Practice
Show steps
Practice sight-reading piano music to improve your ability to play new pieces at first sight.
Show steps
-
Find a collection of sight-reading exercises
-
Practice sight-reading for 15 minutes each day
-
Record yourself sight-reading and listen back to identify areas for improvement
Piano Sonata Study Group
Show steps
Join a study group with other students to discuss and analyze Beethoven's piano sonatas.
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
-
Find a study group or organize one with friends
-
Choose a sonata to focus on each week
-
Prepare for the group meeting by analyzing the sonata and writing down your thoughts
-
Meet with the group and discuss the sonata
-
Share your insights and learn from others
The Piano Sonatas of Ludwig van Beethoven
Show steps
Read Charles Rosen's book to gain insights into the historical context, musical structure, and performance practices of Beethoven's piano sonatas.
View
The Joy of Playing, the Joy of Thinking:...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book
-
Take notes on the key concepts
-
Discuss the book with a friend or colleague
Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Masterclass
Show steps
Watch and learn from a masterclass on Beethoven's piano sonatas given by a renowned pianist or music professor.
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
-
Find a masterclass video or online course
-
Watch the masterclass and take notes on the key insights
-
Apply the techniques and concepts to your own playing
Beethoven's Piano Sonatas: A Personal Interpretation
Show steps
Create a written, audio, or video analysis of one of Beethoven's piano sonatas, exploring your personal interpretation and insights.
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
-
Choose a piano sonata to analyze
-
Study the sonata and write down your thoughts and observations
-
Decide on the format of your analysis (written, audio, or video)
-
Create your analysis, paying attention to both the musical and emotional aspects of the sonata
-
Share your analysis with others and invite feedback
Review of Basic Music Theory
Show steps
Review the basics of music theory, such as scales, chords, and rhythms, to strengthen your understanding of Beethoven's piano sonatas.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes from a previous music theory course or read a textbook
- Practice identifying intervals, chords, and scales
- Analyze simple pieces of music using music theory concepts
Review how to perform Moonlight Sonata 1st movement
Show steps
Polishing your piano performance of the Moonlight Sonata the 1st movement is a great way to refresh your piano skills.
Browse courses on
Piano
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Warm up and stretch fingers on piano
- Review Sheet Music for 1st movement
- Play scales and arpeggios
Volunteer at a Piano Recital
Show steps
Volunteer at a piano recital to gain exposure to live performances of Beethoven's sonatas and interact with other piano enthusiasts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Contact a local concert hall or music organization and offer your help
- Arrive at the recital venue early and assist with setup or ushering
- Listen to the recital and engage with other audience members
- Help with cleanup and tear-down after the recital
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Sight-Reading Practice
Show steps
Practice sight-reading piano music to improve your ability to play new pieces at first sight.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a collection of sight-reading exercises
- Practice sight-reading for 15 minutes each day
- Record yourself sight-reading and listen back to identify areas for improvement
Piano Sonata Study Group
Show steps
Join a study group with other students to discuss and analyze Beethoven's piano sonatas.
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or organize one with friends
- Choose a sonata to focus on each week
- Prepare for the group meeting by analyzing the sonata and writing down your thoughts
- Meet with the group and discuss the sonata
- Share your insights and learn from others
The Piano Sonatas of Ludwig van Beethoven
Show steps
Read Charles Rosen's book to gain insights into the historical context, musical structure, and performance practices of Beethoven's piano sonatas.
View
The Joy of Playing, the Joy of Thinking:...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book
- Take notes on the key concepts
- Discuss the book with a friend or colleague
Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Masterclass
Show steps
Watch and learn from a masterclass on Beethoven's piano sonatas given by a renowned pianist or music professor.
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a masterclass video or online course
- Watch the masterclass and take notes on the key insights
- Apply the techniques and concepts to your own playing
Beethoven's Piano Sonatas: A Personal Interpretation
Show steps
Create a written, audio, or video analysis of one of Beethoven's piano sonatas, exploring your personal interpretation and insights.
Browse courses on
Piano Sonatas
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a piano sonata to analyze
- Study the sonata and write down your thoughts and observations
- Decide on the format of your analysis (written, audio, or video)
- Create your analysis, paying attention to both the musical and emotional aspects of the sonata
- Share your analysis with others and invite feedback
Career center
Learners who complete Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 4 will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
Music Teachers introduce students to the fundamentals of music and help them develop their musical talents. They may teach a variety of instruments, including piano, guitar, and violin. This course may be useful for Music Teachers who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them teach their students about the importance of music history and appreciation. Additionally, the course can help Music Teachers improve their own piano playing skills. This can be beneficial for teaching students and for personal enjoyment.
Musician
Musician
Musicians perform music for audiences. They may play instruments, sing, or both. This course may be useful for Musicians who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them perform the sonatas with greater accuracy and expression. Additionally, the course can help Musicians improve their own piano playing skills. This can be beneficial for performing and for personal enjoyment.
Piano Tuner
Piano Tuner
Piano Tuners tune and repair pianos. They use specialized tools and techniques to ensure that the piano is in proper working order. This course may be useful for Piano Tuners who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them better understand the needs of their clients and how to best tune their pianos.
Music Critic
Music Critic
Music Critics write reviews and articles about music. They may also give lectures and presentations on music. This course may be useful for Music Critics who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them write more informed and insightful reviews and articles. Additionally, the course can help Music Critics improve their own writing skills.
Music Historian
Music Historian
Music Historians study the history of music. They may write books, articles, and other materials about music history. This course may be useful for Music Historians who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them write more accurate and informative books and articles about music history.
Music Librarian
Music Librarian
Music Librarians manage and organize music collections. They may also provide reference services to patrons. This course may be useful for Music Librarians who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them better serve their patrons and provide them with more information about music.
Music Producer
Music Producer
Music Producers oversee the production of music recordings. They work with musicians, engineers, and other professionals to create the final product. This course may be useful for Music Producers who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them make better decisions about how to produce and market the music.
Music Therapist
Music Therapist
Music Therapists use music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and mental health. They may work with individuals or groups in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and nursing homes. This course may be useful for Music Therapists who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them use music more effectively in their work with clients.
Piano Builder
Piano Builder
Piano Builders build and repair pianos. They use specialized skills and knowledge to create and maintain these instruments. This course may be useful for Piano Builders who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them build and repair pianos that are more accurate to the composer's original intent.
Music Archivist
Music Archivist
Music Archivists preserve and manage music collections. They may work in libraries, museums, or other institutions. This course may be useful for Music Archivists who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them better care for and preserve the music for future generations.
Music Educator
Music Educator
Music Educators teach music in schools and other settings. They may work with students of all ages and abilities. This course may be useful for Music Educators who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them teach their students about the importance of music history and appreciation. Additionally, the course can help Music Educators improve their own piano playing skills.
Music Journalist
Music Journalist
Music Journalists write articles and reviews about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They may also interview musicians and other music professionals. This course may be useful for Music Journalists who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them write more informed and insightful articles and reviews.
Music Promoter
Music Promoter
Music Promoters promote music events and artists. They may work for record labels, concert venues, or other organizations. This course may be useful for Music Promoters who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them better promote the music and artists they work with.
Music Researcher
Music Researcher
Music Researchers study music and its history. They may work in universities, libraries, or other institutions. This course may be useful for Music Researchers who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them conduct more accurate and insightful research.
Music Software Engineer
Music Software Engineer
Music Software Engineers develop software for musicians and the music industry. They may work for software companies, record labels, or other organizations. This course may be useful for Music Software Engineers who want to learn more about Beethoven's piano sonatas. The course can help them gain a deeper understanding of the music and its historical context. This knowledge can help them develop software that is more useful and relevant to musicians.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jnpe5l/exploring
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
Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 4.
Provides a detailed guide to Beethoven's piano sonatas, offering insights into their technical demands, performance practice, and historical context. It valuable resource for pianists and teachers alike.
Offers a personal perspective on Beethoven's piano sonatas from one of the world's leading pianists. It provides insights into their performance challenges, musical interpretation, and emotional depth.
Explores the philosophical and aesthetic dimensions of Beethoven's piano sonatas, offering a unique perspective on their significance and impact. It valuable resource for scholars and music lovers alike.
Save
Provides a comprehensive biography of Beethoven, exploring his life, work, and influence. It offers valuable background knowledge for understanding the context in which his piano sonatas were composed.
Provides a comprehensive biography of Beethoven, exploring his life, work, and influence. It offers valuable background knowledge for understanding the context in which his piano sonatas were composed.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music history, from the Middle Ages to the present day. It offers valuable background knowledge for understanding the historical context of Beethoven's piano sonatas.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jnpe5l/exploring
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Curtis Institute of Music
Instructor
Jonathan Biss
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