IN PERSON: This course provides an immersive exploration of the masterpieces of the symphony orchestra and the artists who perform them. Not your usual music appreciation class, this course leads students through a series of activities designed to enhance their awareness of what they hear and how they experience music. Each class will focus on one major orchestral work and one minor work, 20 pieces in all. Students will discover how to develop their own music library and how to create playlists. This course will help students create a connection to music that can help them release stress, restore balance, and become more creative and productive. Class activities will include lectures, visualizations, discussions, and journaling. Students will be “conducted” as they sit in the places of orchestral musicians. Previous attendees of this course have described it as “life changing." Each class offers a unique listening experience. Previous students will benefit as much as new ones. All are welcome. | Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion, Active Skill Learning.
Max enrollment: 25.
Location: Judea Reform Congregation, 1933 W. Cornwallis Rd, Durham NC 27705
Ben Wechsler studied horn, piano, and pipe organ from an early age. He served as choir director and pipe organist for 22 congregations over 47 years. Ben holds three degrees: a BS in music education from the University of Illinois, a Master of Music Education from Indiana University, and a Master of Music in opera and musical theater accompanying from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He has a horn studio in Chapel Hill and is an active member of the Duke University Chapel Choir.