Throughout the history of the arts in Western civilization,
certain individuals stand out whose achievements
seem to propel the very nature of their respective art
forward. They are said to stretch its boundaries by
manipulating its raw materials in ways not conceived of
prior to their time. These artists end up exerting
enormous influence on others - those working in the
same field and the culture in general. This course
examines the lives and works of specific composers
who have had an unusually powerful influence in the
process, informing us a great deal about music's path
through the ages. It may also yield insights into the
nature of influence and progress themselves.
Composers to be studied are J.S. Bach, Beethoven,
Wagner, and Stravinsky. |
