Watch Great Music of the 20th Century
- 2018
- 1 Season
The Great Music of the 20th Century is an engaging and enlightening course from The Great Courses Signature Collection that examines the music that shaped the cultural landscape of the 20th century. Taught by renowned musicologist Robert Greenberg, this 24-lecture series takes listeners on a journey through the evocative and transformative music of the past century, exploring the innovations and developments that have made it so enduringly popular. Greenberg is a lively and engaging instructor, bringing his encyclopedic knowledge of music to bear in a way that is accessible and entertaining for music lovers of all levels of expertise. Throughout the series, he provides listeners with context and insight on each piece of music, delving into its backstory and examining its relevance to the historical, cultural, and musical trends of its time. The course covers a wide range of musical genres and styles, from orchestral works to jazz to modernist compositions, and introduces listeners to some of the most influential composers of the 20th century, including Stravinsky, Bernstein, Copland, Gershwin, and Cage. Each lecture focuses on a specific piece of music, allowing Greenberg to explore its significance in detail and provide a deeper understanding of the music and its cultural context. In addition to the lectures, the course includes a comprehensive guidebook that provides additional information on each piece of music, as well as biographical information on the composers and important historical context. The guidebook also includes a glossary of musical terms, which is particularly helpful for those who are new to the study of music. One of the most compelling aspects of the course is the way in which Greenberg brings the music to life for the listener. Through his passionate storytelling and engaging musical examples, he is able to convey the emotional power and significance of each piece, making it a rich and immersive listening experience. Whether you are a dedicated classical music fan or simply interested in exploring the music of the 20th century, Great Music of the 20th Century is an essential course that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of some of the most groundbreaking and enduring music of the past century.