German Opera: Beethoven to Strauss
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

"In this course, we will examine six operas by six of the most prominent German Romantic composers: Beethoven's Fidelio, von Weber's Der Freischutz, Wagner's Tristan und Isolde, Humperdinck's Hansel und Gretel, Richard Strauss' Der Rosenkavalier, and Korngold's Die tote Stadt. Structurally, each week will consist of an opening lecture followed by several audio and video examples that we will listen to and analyze in class. These lectures will cover topics such as the source material for the opera, libretto/librettist, composition, story, and famous performers and performances of each opera. Students will be expected to listen to a professional video recording (options provided by instructor) of each opera before each class. While a musical background may be helpful, this course is designed for everyone with a desire to learn and an open mind (and ear)."