The Intimate Beethoven: Masterpieces of Chamber Music

Register for this Spring 2024 course on the new NYU SPS Academy of Lifelong Learning website .
Some of Ludwig von Beethoven’s most beloved pieces are his works for small ensembles. With just a few or perhaps even just one instrument, this supreme artist is able to create an intimate world of sound. We will focus on works from various chamber genres: piano sonata, violin sonata, piano trio, string trio, quartet and quintet. Let’s explore this realm of enchanting music filled with refinement and introspection by listening to such works as the “Kreutzer” Violin Sonata, the G major Sonata, the Bagatelles for piano, Lieder such as “In questa tomba obscura,” the “Ghost” Trio, as well as the “Razumovsky” and late string quartets. With every opus there is always a fascinating story. We will investigate these works and find out what they reveal of Beethoven the man as well as his challenges and his triumphs. No musical knowledge is necessary for the enjoyment of this class.  Spring 2024 tuition is $849.

More details