Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/piano-sonata-origins-to-mozart
If you’re a classical music enthusiast or a curious learner eager to deepen your understanding of piano music, ‘The Piano Sonata: Origins to Mozart’ on Coursera is an exceptional course that offers a comprehensive journey through the history and structure of one of the most cherished musical forms. This course expertly introduces the concept of sonata form, explaining its mechanics, historical development, and how it serves as the backbone of multi-movement compositions.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore the fascinating early history of the piano sonata, learning about pioneering composers like Domenico Scarlatti, C.P.E. Bach, Joseph Haydn, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The course delves into how the evolving keyboard instruments—from the harpsichord and clavichord to early pianos—influenced compositional styles and performance practices. A particularly enriching aspect is distinguishing between Baroque, Galant, and Classical styles, helping you to appreciate the stylistic shifts across different periods.
Structured into engaging weekly modules, the course begins with foundational concepts, then moves into the dawn of the solo keyboard sonata, and culminates in an in-depth look at the Viennese Classic masters. For those interested in advanced study, an optional Honors Formal Analysis provides an opportunity to analyze sonatas more rigorously.
I highly recommend this course for anyone passionate about classical music, music students, educators, or pianists seeking to understand the rich historical context of the sonata form. The clear explanations, well-organized content, and historical insights make it an enjoyable and educational experience that significantly enhances your listening and analytical skills. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refresh your knowledge, this course is a valuable resource for appreciating the evolution of one of Western music’s most iconic genres.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/piano-sonata-origins-to-mozart