New course caters to music lovers

Music

In an Australian first, the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and the University's Elder Conservatorium of Music have joined forces to create a 10-week course in classical music studies.

The course, called "Soundings: explorations in classical music", does not require the ability to read music and is designed for people who want to know more about the history and ideas behind the evolution of classical and orchestral music.

"Before every ASO Master Series concert we get hundreds of people attending the pre-concert talk, which gives audiences an insight into the history of the works to be played," said ASO Chief Executive Rainer Jozeps.

"Clearly there is a hunger for knowledge about the repertoire, and for the first time an orchestra is joining forces with one of Australia's most prestigious conservatories to present a short course designed for the general public.

"It's a perfect opportunity to join with the Elder Conservatorium, and highly acclaimed musician and educator Richard Chew, in delivering an after-hours music studies course that leads to a Certificate of Achievement conferred by both the ASO and the Conservatorium."

Richard Chew said: "This course represents a wonderful opportunity for people who are enthusiastic about classical music and would like to learn more about it in a friendly and supportive environment.

"The emphasis will be on enjoyment and enrichment through listening to and appreciating great works of art.

"It's something we desperately need in an age which is so dominated by information technologies, where there is so little time for reflection and aesthetic pleasure."

There is substantial interest in the course from arts organisations, practitioners in the broader music industry, and subscribers and followers of the ASO.

Part of the course will require students to attend ASO Master Series concerts, as well as lectures and seminars conducted at the Elder Conservatorium at the University of Adelaide.

The course costs $950 and will run from 23 April-25 June.

For more information about the course, contact Susie Gold at the Elder Conservatorium of Music's Access Centre: +61 8 8313 0304 or email: susan.gold@adelaide.edu.au
www.music.adelaide.edu.au/study/access