T.S. Eliot says in an article (The Decline of Music Hall) that the highest point of European culture is opera. Because it is the point where classical music, classical drama, and painting meet classical literature. Opera is still the main art in Europe today. Modern operas like The Lion King are also being created. Another form of opera is modern musical theater.
It is in opera that the highest potential of Western music has occurred. The main personality of European music is Richard Wagner. His operas are the artistic events through which the literary form of epic poetry has emerged as a great musical form. The symphony is a simpler form than opera.
Ajithan has already conducted two classes introducing Beethoven, the genius of symphony music. As requested by many young people, he is going to conduct an introductory class on Wagner’s operas.
An art form like opera is not simple to introduce. You need to listen to and experience the music along with its literary and cultural background. In this class, Ajithan provides a beginning by introducing the philosophy and literature of opera as well as its music.
Dates: July 25, 26, and 27
