MHST 557T Performance & Scholarship: Beethoven's Works for Cello & Piano
This co-taught course offers an immersive exploration of Beethoven's complete works for cello and piano. Students enrolled in the class will frame their engagement with this repertoire through an integrative approach that roots study and performance within a range of historical, theoretical, interpretive, and cultural contexts. Cornerstones of the repertoire, Beethoven’s works for cello and piano provide a lens to consider trends and tendencies in Beethoven’s compositional style through his early, middle, and late periods. As such, the class will offer a specialized perspective on Beethoven’s career and output, inviting conversation of works across genres that relate to the repertoire studied. Class meetings will situate masterclass-style instruction within an array of historical and theoretical frames including biographical considerations, performance practice, and the place of these works within Beethoven’s oeuvre. Through performance, analysis, discussion, and written assignments, participants will consider Beethoven’s approach to form, texture, and thematic development. The course will also address critical perspectives on interpretation, including the influence of historical recordings and contemporary performance trends. The course is open to both undergraduate and graduate students, but enrollment is limited to pianists and cellists. An application is required.
Notes
Undergraduates earn 3 credits of Music History. Graduates matriculating prior to Fall 2025 earn 2 credits of Music History and 1 credit of elective. Graduates matriculating in Fall 2025 or later earn 3 credits of Music History. (3 credits total)