Course Description
Composer and piano virtuoso Sergei Rachmaninoff (1871 - 1943) came
to musical maturity in the 1890s just as 19th century romanticism was giving
way to 20th century modernism. But Rachmaninoff carried the romantic torch
for another half century producing works of song-like melodicism, emotional
expressiveness, and rich orchestral colors.
Explore selections from Rachmaninoff's best symphonies, piano concertos,
solo piano works, and more (his vocal works are not covered). Learn how his
music was influenced by the sounds of his native Russia. Stories from his life
such as his exile to New York during the Bolshevik revolution add to class
discussions and your understanding of the music. Discover many renowned
pianists by watching videos of their performances of Rachmaninoff's works.
List of compositions by Sergei Rachmaninoff
Course Syllabus
Session 1: Who was Sergei Rachmaninoff?
The Early Compositions
Suite No. 2 (for two pianos), Op. 17 (1901)
Session 2: Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 (1901)
Preludes, Opp. 23 & 32 (1901 - 1910)
Cello Sonata, Op. 19 (1901)
Variations on a Theme of Chopin, Op. 22 (1902-03)
Session 3: Symphony No. 2, Op. 27 (1906-07)
Ètudes-tableaux, Opp. 33 & 39 (1901 - 1911)
Isle of the Dead, Op. 29 (1908)
Piano Concerto No. 3, Op. 30 (1909)
Session 4: Piano Sonata No. 2, Op. 36 (1913, rev. 1931)
Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43 (1934)
Symphony No. 3, Op. 44 (1936)
- or -
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45 (1940)
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Piano Concerto No. 4 in G minor, Op. 40 (1926, rev. 1941)
- or -
Variations on a Theme of Corelli, Op. 42 (1931)
