This course examines the long tradition of French music, from the French Romantics to the early 20th-century Debussy, best known for Clair de Lune. The rich story of French music since then connects with Wagner, jazz, modernism and even influences from Russia. We consider Ravel, the conservative Fauré, the entertaining Milhaud and the transcendence of Messiaen. This is an experience in musical color, tradition and illustration on OLLI’s new keyboard.
Barry Salwen is a concert pianist, long-time UNCW professor, and a lover of playing Debussy, among many other composers. Recently, he completed a degree in French, which included a semester studying in France.