In this course, pianist and educator Daniel Weiser will explore the tragically short but incredibly productive life of America's greatest composer. The son of Russian Jewish immigrants, Gershwin grew up in the rough, chaotic streets of New York and soaked up the melting pot around him to help formulate the new, brash sound of America. Combining elements of "Jewish" music with the "Blues" and "Ragtime" brought by recent Black migrants from the South, Gershwin would help produce the new "Jazz" that would soon help make New York City a new center for musical culture. Gershwin seamlessly moved between the "classical" and "popular" worlds to help obscure some of the more overt differences between them. Over four classes, Weiser will play much of Gershwin's concert music, including "Rhapsody in Blue," "An American in Paris," and his Preludes. He will also perform many of his iconic songs, most written with his brother Ira, as well as his obscure early opera, Blue Monday.
912.591.01 via Zoom
Wednesday, May 5 to 26; 1 to 3 p.m.
Cost: $140 (four sessions)
JHU full-time faculty/staff are eligible for tuition remission. For registration details, please contact bhebron@jhu.edu.
