Exploring Music: Jewish Influence in Classical Music

Dive into great works by great composers with instructor Clint Edwards:

May 9: Johann Strauss II – the Waltz-King of Vienna: Exploring the life and works of the 19th century master of the waltz, the stories behind his greatest works, and the rich cultural scene of Vienna.

May 16: Aaron Copland – Appalachian Spring: Exploring one of Aaron Copland’s greatest ballet scores, the history behind the piece, and analysis of Copland’s remarkable compositional methods, in the creation of a 20th century masterpiece.

May 23: Dmitri Shostakovich and the Holocaust – Symphony 13 “Babi Yar”: Though not jewish himself, Dmitri Shostakovich was profoundly impacted by the events of WWII and the Holocaust. As we analyze his monumental 13th symphony (“Babi Yar”), itself a commemoration of the atrocities committed upon Jews in the Soviet Ukraine, we will trace Shostakovich’s commemoration and empathy for the victims of these events.

May 30: Felix Mendelssohn – The Italian Symphony: Exploring the creation of one of Mendelssohn’s greatest works – with musical analysis and biographical insights into his creative process.

Save! Register by May 7 for “Early Bird” pricing!

Presented in partnership with The Osher Marin JCC and the National JCC Adult & Senior Alliance.