1. A Royal Celebration: Handel’s Water Music
Step back in time to the 18th century with a 4-week online class dedicated to George Frideric Handel’s magnificent Water Music. Originally composed for a royal concert on the River Thames, this piece is a cornerstone of the Baroque era. In this course, you will not only listen to the enchanting melodies but also delve into the history and musical structures that make this work a masterpiece. Designed for students with a 6th-grade reading and writing level, the class provides all the necessary activity sheets. While assignments are optional, they are highly encouraged to get the most out of the experience. You'll engage with the music through listening, watching related videos, reading short descriptions, and even tackling some creative projects.
2. A Journey of Joy: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony
Prepare to be moved by the power and passion of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. This self-paced, 4-week online class is a deep dive into one of the most famous and influential pieces in the history of Western music. You'll explore the symphony's four movements, learn about the life of Beethoven, and gain an understanding of musical composition and analysis. This course, designed for ages 12-15, offers flexibility with pre-recorded lessons and a full year of access to the content, along with four weeks of dedicated teacher support. Optional assignments, including listening, watching videos, and creative projects, will enhance your understanding and appreciation of this monumental work, culminating in the iconic "Ode to Joy."
3. A Blast of Victory: Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture
Experience the explosive energy of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture in this immersive musical journey. This class explores how Tchaikovsky used a full orchestra—and even real cannons—to commemorate Russia's defense against Napoleon's invading army. Students will trace the narrative of the battle through the music, identifying themes from the French national anthem and traditional Russian hymns. By studying the historical context and the dramatic "leitmotifs" used throughout the piece, learners will gain a new perspective on one of the most recognizable and exciting finales in classical music.
4. A Cosmic Excursion: Holst’s The Planets
Blast off on an artistic and musical journey with a self-paced class on Gustav Holst's The Planets. This unique 4-week course combines the auditory magic of Holst's orchestral suite with creative expressions. Explore the suite's unique instrumentation, astronomical inspirations, and the evocative moods of each movement—from the menacing "Mars" to the ethereal "Neptune."
5. A Story in Sound: Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf
Discover how music can tell a story in this engaging, self-paced class on Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf. This 4-week musical journey, suitable for ages 12-15, introduces students to the instruments of the orchestra through the unforgettable characters and narrative of this beloved symphonic fairy tale. Through pre-recorded lessons and teacher support, students will learn how Prokofiev used different instruments to represent Peter, the bird, the duck, the cat, the wolf, and the hunters. The course includes listening activities, video explorations, and a creative project, all designed to deepen the understanding of musical themes and storytelling in music.
Whether you're looking to understand the classics on a deeper level or introduce a young learner to the wonders of orchestral music, these online classes provide an accessible and engaging way to connect with these timeless masterpieces.
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I've published five piano music books and one guitar music book. Get them here.
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