First performed in 1800, Beethoven's Septet, op. 20, for clarinet, bassoon, horn, violin, viola, cello, and contrabass, was an instant hit. The composer was 30, and it was at his debut concert in Vienna, sandwiched between choral works and the premiere of his first symphony. Music for such ensembles was extremely popular in those days because they were easy to get together, and, of course, if you wanted to hear music, it had to be live. Fortunately, it is a great piece, and its popularity was such that Beethoven later in life wished he had never written it, thinking that it eclipsed his other works. Enjoy a lecture by hornist Douglas Blackstone and a free concert led by BSO concertmaster Jonathan Carney, professionally recorded live for the popular Music in the Valley Series at St. John's Episcopal Church, 3738 Butler Rd., Reisterstown.
912.586.01 via Zoom
Saturday, Oct. 31, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; concert via YouTube, Sunday, Nov. 1, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. .
Cost: $20 (2 sessions).
JHU full-time faculty/staff are eligible for 80% tuition remission. You will be unable to register online and receive the discount. Contact bhebron@jhu.edu for registration details.
