News: Conductor

Boston Philharmonic Pre-Concert Lectures

Cracking The Code

Posted: 2002-08-28 15:58:03

Every Boston Philharmonic concert has two elements: the music and Ben Zander's explanation of the music. Mr. Zander believes that virtually anyone of any age and background will be moved by great music, if they are guided in unlocking the mysteries. Music expresses emotions and moods that everyone has experienced. It is created in structures that most people can perceive and develops motives that anybody can be taught to hear in a matter of seconds. Also there is fascinating information about the orchestration, the ideas behind the music and the circumstances in which the piece was composed, even gossip about the process of preparation of the concert that can bring the experience of listening vividly alive.


People who have only heard lectures about music delivered by earnest professors droning on about sonata form and dates are in for a delightful surprise at Ben Zander's pre-concert lectures. There are those who say that they are as much fun as the concerts themselves and others who consider these
preparatory events essential for the full understanding of the music. The proof is that more than 2/3rds of the audience now shows up for these free events.


Times


Jordan Hall 6.45

Concert at 8pm


Sanders Theater 1.45

Concert at 3pm