Beethoven, Berlioz, & Mahler: Revolutionaries of the 19th Century (In-person)
Fall (11 hours to 14.5) | Registration opens 8/13/2026 12:00 AM EDT
The music of the 19th century is filled with wondrous masterworks of Schubert, Mendelssohn, Chopin, Schumann, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Dvorak, and beyond. Beethoven enabled this romantic movement by pushing the boundaries of the Haydn-Mozart classical era. Hector Berlioz in turn kept pushing and created the model for the large symphonic orchestra that we still have today. Gustav Mahler at the end of the century forged a global symphonic vision that helped bridge the romantic with the 20th century modern era. From this simplified framework, we will listen to and discuss three major works: Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, Berlioz’s Damnation of Faust, and Mahler’s 5th Symphony. Other shorter works from each composer will also be included. Over a six week period you will hear pure elegance, high drama in hell, and a tour de force of tragedy and joy!
This course will consist of discussions between the Study Leader and participants.
Moby Pearson
A graduate of Oberlin Conservatory, violinist Moby Pearson has performed with chamber ensembles and orchestras for over 45 years. He has toured the great concert halls in Europe with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and coached student ensembles in the middle east as a member of the Apple Hill Chamber Players. Presently he resides in Brattleboro and is on the faculty of the Brattleboro Music Center, where he teaches, conducts, and offers courses in music appreciation.