This course will examine the extraordinary musical career of J.S. Bach, associated with his earliest musical efforts at Eisenach, and the variety of musical posts which he subsequently held as an organist or musician. Contrary to most people`s understanding, consideration will be also given as to why he was thought more highly of by his contemporaries, as a performer rather than a composer. Indeed his compositions largely remained in manuscript for a century after his death. In order to understand J.S. Bach`s Baroque musical style more fully , the elements bound within music ,and the characteristics of Baroque musical style will also be explained and discussed.
Course aim
This course will help students to understand more about the life, times and music of the Baroque composer J.S.Bach [1685-1750 ] linked with learning more about the amazing variety of his prolific musical compositions.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- No skills or experience needed
- This course is suitable for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Be able to identify the basic elements bound within music
- Be able to briefly describe J.S, Bach`s life circumstances and contemporary times.
- Be able to briefly desribe Baroque musical style.
- Have a brief recall of several of J.S.Bach`s compositions.
- Be encouraged to listen to more music composed by J.S.Bach e.g at local concerts , on radio3 , classic FM etc.
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
- You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
- You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions
What else do I need to know?
- Nothing else is needed
- It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
- No pre reading is required but research on the subject on the internet or in the library may be helpful
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- Become involved with the WEA in a range of voluntary work and other activities including campaigning as a WEA member
- Access the WEA What Next? booklet here http://www.wea.org.uk/learn-wea/what-can-i-do-next
Download full course information sheet
