The course is taught by Jonathan Biss, an internationally acclaimed pianist who has recorded all 32 of Beethoven’s piano sonatas.
The course is designed to provide learners with an in-depth understanding of Beethoven's piano sonatas and their place in music history. It consists of six modules, each covering a different aspect of Beethoven’s music.
Module 1: Introduction to Beethoven's Piano Sonatas This module provides an introduction to Beethoven’s life and music, and sets the stage for the rest of the course. It covers the historical context in which Beethoven composed his sonatas and introduces learners to the basic musical concepts they will need to understand the sonatas.
Module 2: Early Sonatas This module covers Beethoven’s early piano sonatas, composed between 1795 and 1800. Learners will study the Op. 2 and Op. 7 sonatas and learn about the development of Beethoven's style during this period.
Module 3: Middle Sonatas This module covers Beethoven’s middle period, from 1801 to 1814. Learners will study the “Moonlight” Sonata (Op. 27, No. 2), the “Waldstein” Sonata (Op. 53), and the “Appassionata” Sonata (Op. 57).
Module 4: Late Sonatas This module covers Beethoven’s late period, from 1815 to 1827. Learners will study the last five sonatas (Opp. 101, 106, 109, 110, and 111) and the Bagatelles (Op. 126).
Module 5: Analysis and Interpretation This module teaches learners how to analyze and interpret Beethoven’s piano sonatas. It covers topics such as structure, harmony, and rhythm, and offers tips for performance and interpretation.
Module 6: Conclusion and Reflection In the final module, learners will reflect on what they have learned throughout the course and consider the ongoing significance of Beethoven’s music.
Overall, this course provides an opportunity for learners to deepen their appreciation and understanding of Beethoven’s piano sonatas, and to explore the ways in which Beethoven’s music continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Course Content:
Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas by Jonathan Biss on Coursera consists of six modules, each containing several lectures:
Module 1: Introduction to Beethoven's Piano Sonatas
- Lecture 1: Introduction to the Course
- Lecture 2: Beethoven's Life and Historical Context
- Lecture 3: The Nature of the Piano Sonata
- Lecture 4: Sonata Form and Other Musical Concepts
- Lecture 5: Beethoven's Style and Evolution
Module 2: Early Sonatas
- Lecture 1: Op. 2, No. 1
- Lecture 2: Op. 2, No. 2
- Lecture 3: Op. 2, No. 3
- Lecture 4: Op. 7
- Lecture 5: Early Sonatas and Beethoven's Style
- Lecture 6: Recap of Early Sonatas
Module 3: Middle Sonatas
- Lecture 1: Op. 10, No. 1
- Lecture 2: Op. 10, No. 2
- Lecture 3: Op. 10, No. 3
- Lecture 4: Op. 13, "Pathétique"
- Lecture 5: Op. 14, No. 1
- Lecture 6: Op. 14, No. 2
- Lecture 7: Op. 22
- Lecture 8: Op. 26
- Lecture 9: Op. 27, No. 1
- Lecture 10: Op. 27, No. 2, "Moonlight"
- Lecture 11: Op. 28, "Pastoral"
- Lecture 12: Op. 31, No. 2, "Tempest"
- Lecture 13: Op. 31, No. 3
- Lecture 14: Op. 53, "Waldstein"
- Lecture 15: Op. 54
- Lecture 16: Op. 57, "Appassionata"
- Lecture 17: Recap of Middle Sonatas
Module 4: Late Sonatas
- Lecture 1: Op. 101
- Lecture 2: Op. 106, "Hammerklavier"
- Lecture 3: Op. 109
- Lecture 4: Op. 110
- Lecture 5: Op. 111
- Lecture 6: Bagatelles, Op. 126
- Lecture 7: Recap of Late Sonatas
Module 5: Analysis and Interpretation
- Lecture 1: Overview of Analysis and Interpretation
- Lecture 2: Form and Structure
- Lecture 3: Harmony and Tonality
- Lecture 4: Rhythm and Meter
- Lecture 5: Performance and Interpretation
Module 6: Conclusion and Reflection
- Lecture 1: Conclusion and Reflection
So the course contains 6 modules, with a total of 29 lectures.
Reviews:
Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas by Jonathan Biss on Coursera is a highly engaging and informative course that offers a comprehensive analysis of Beethoven's piano sonatas. As a former student, I found the course to be an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about classical music, music theory, or the piano.
One of the standout features of the course is Biss's expertise and passion for Beethoven's music. His deep knowledge of the subject matter and engaging presentation style make each lecture a joy to watch. He provides insightful commentary on each sonata, placing them in the context of Beethoven's life and artistic development.
The course structure is well-designed, with a clear progression from an overview of Beethoven's life and historical context to a detailed analysis of each sonata. The lectures are supplemented by reading materials and quizzes, which help reinforce learning and provide an opportunity for self-assessment.
One potential drawback of the course is that it may be challenging for those without a strong musical background. The sections on musical theory and analysis may be particularly challenging for beginners. However, Biss does an excellent job of breaking down complex concepts into easily understandable parts, making the material accessible even for those with limited musical knowledge.
Overall, I highly recommend Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas to anyone interested in learning more about classical music, music theory, or the piano. The course is a valuable resource for music enthusiasts of all levels, offering a deep understanding of Beethoven's music and insight into the mind of one of history's greatest composers.
At the time, the coure has an average rating or 4.8 out of 5 stars based on over 589 ratings.
What you'll learn:
After completing the Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas course by Jonathan Biss on Coursera, learners can expect to develop a range of skills related to music theory, analysis, interpretation, and performance.
Firstly, learners will gain a deeper understanding of Beethoven's piano sonatas, including their historical context, musical structure, and stylistic characteristics. They will also become familiar with various techniques and motifs that Beethoven used in his compositions, which can help them appreciate and analyze other classical works.
Secondly, learners will develop skills related to musical analysis, such as identifying chord progressions, melodic themes, and rhythmic patterns. These skills can be applied to other musical genres and compositions and can help learners become more confident in their ability to analyze and understand music.
Thirdly, learners will improve their ability to interpret and perform classical music. Through detailed analysis of Beethoven's sonatas, learners will gain insight into how to bring out the nuances and subtleties of the music, as well as how to convey emotion and meaning through their performance.
Finally, learners will develop critical thinking and self-assessment skills through the quizzes and assignments that are included in the course. These activities provide learners with opportunities to test their knowledge and skills, receive feedback from their peers and instructors, and improve their understanding of the material.
Overall, the Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas course provides learners with a range of valuable skills related to music theory, analysis, interpretation, and performance. These skills can be applied to a variety of musical genres and compositions and can help learners become more knowledgeable and confident musicians.
Author:
Jonathan Biss is a world-renowned pianist, writer, and educator who has established himself as one of the foremost interpreters of classical music of his generation. Born in 1980 in the United States, Biss began studying piano at a young age and went on to attend the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. He has since performed with leading orchestras and ensembles around the world and has recorded numerous critically acclaimed albums.
In addition to his performing career, Biss is also an accomplished writer and educator. He has written extensively on classical music and has authored several books, including "Beethoven's Shadow," which explores the life and work of Ludwig van Beethoven. Biss has also taught at institutions such as the Curtis Institute of Music, the New England Conservatory, and the Royal Academy of Music, sharing his knowledge and passion for classical music with students around the world.
Biss's expertise in classical music, and Beethoven's works, in particular, is evident in his Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas course on Coursera. He provides detailed and insightful analysis of each sonata, drawing on his extensive knowledge of music theory, history, and performance. Biss's lectures are engaging and accessible, making complex concepts easy to understand for learners of all levels.
Overall, Jonathan Biss is a highly respected musician, writer, and educator who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His expertise and passion for the subject matter are evident in his performances, writings, and teachings, and learners of his Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas course on Coursera can benefit greatly from his knowledge and insight.
Requirements:
The Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas course by Jonathan Biss on Coursera requires learners to have a basic understanding of music theory and some experience playing the piano. In order to participate in the course, learners will need access to a piano or keyboard for practice and to complete the assignments.
Throughout the course, learners will be expected to engage with the material through a variety of activities, including watching video lectures, completing listening exercises, and practicing playing the sonatas themselves. Learners will also be asked to participate in discussion forums with their peers, providing feedback on each other's performances and engaging in dialogue about the course material.
In order to successfully complete the course, learners will need to demonstrate their understanding of the material through quizzes and assignments, including peer-reviewed performance videos. Upon completing the course, learners will receive a certificate of completion, indicating their mastery of the course material.
Overall, the Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas course requires a significant commitment of time and effort from learners, but provides a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of classical music, piano performance, and music theory.
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