Music as a Mirror of History

After thoroughly enjoying two art survey courses, we decided to try a music appreciation course. After listening to a couple of sessions, we have not continued. This is a history course more than a music appreciation course. We also aren’t enjoying the style of the teacher. Disappointed!

The concept of relating music to the historical period in which it was developed is promising but is not well developed here. We do learn how a composer like Shostakovich chose or was forced to tailor his compositions to the demands of his government, and these cases are very interesting and are well treated here. But by far the most time goes into lengthy descriptions of history—sometimes fascinating, sometimes just begging to be fast forwarded—without a lot of payoff in added understanding to the music of the period. Still, we have Robert Greenberg’s inimitable wit to perk up the lectures, and whatever insights don’t get buried in the mire of historical material are generally compelling.

I bought this because as a musician I wanted to fill the gaps in my knowledge of music history. Unfortunately, though I am sure Mr. Greenberg is knowledgeable, I find everything to “wordy.” What he could say in “one paragraph” he says in ten and frequently goes off into an unrelated tangent. I do appreciate his enthusiasm and will try to continue the course

First of all, it is wonderful to look at a work of art in its historical context. I was in graduate school in the 1970s for German Literature, and that was discouraged (in other literatures as well) because we were supposed to consider only the work itself. Dr. Greenburg certainly knows music. I appreciate his style of lecturing most of the time. However, he at times gives short shrift to events and/or individuals. I specifically mention his comments on Charles I Stuart. He was not what Dr. Greenburg dismisses him as with one remark. And there are some errors. James I of England was James VI, not VII, of Scotland. The translation of "La Marseillaise" has an error. "Formez vos battalions :is "Form your battalions" not "From your battalions" (sic) So far I have seen three lectures. I will pick others that interest me, but someone needs to clean the historical mirror here.

This course offers an excellent overview of history through the lens of classical music. Focusing on European history in the era from about 1700-1945, when classical music was at its high point, the broad strokes of European history are recounted. In each lecture, the professor gives thorough historical background to the events motivating a composer, capturing the drama and thrill of invasions, revolutions, and other events. He also gives a biographical portrait of the composer, and their motivation and intention in writing a specific piece of music. This professor is fun, engaging, and deeply intelligent. At one point he mentions that he had a full list of pieces of music and events about which he was prepared to speak, but pared it down to half to give this course. I sincerely hope he comes back to do another round of them for Wondrium.

The history lessons were so interesting and allowed me to understand music from a completely different viewpoint than I have used before. Robert Greenberg is also a great teacher. Informative, funny and just a little provocative at times. This is clearly one of my favorite series that I've watched and listened to.

I am learning so much about how the world of music fits against the backdrop of the contemporary world and reflects the same. The Professor presents in an engaging fashion and really brings the two worlds and the interplay between them to the fore. I find the handbook very useful as a revision guide.

We are long-time fans of Great Courses, and Dr. Greenberg is one of our favorites. He always provides excellent information in an entertaining manner. This course was a surprise because I expected it to be more focused on the music portion of the course but we found out so much that we had not heard before and it is obvious that Dr. Greenberg did careful research. Very informative. Definitely worth the effort and time to go through the course. Great purchase!

Prof Greenburg presents the historical milieu of significant works of music in a compelling and energetic manner. I have five other discs that he has offered. Dr Charles E. Seifert

Professor Greenberg is really a master teacher, both of music and history. His concise yet detailed history summaries are brilliant as is his elucidation of the music.