Great Composers Part I: Bach’s Pursuit of Musical Perfection (In-Person)

Registration Required Below

J.S. Bach’s death in 1750 marked the end of the Baroque era. Though his music was not fully appreciated in the 18^th century, today he is revered as one of the most brilliant and influential musicians in the Western canon.

Professor Gil Harel, a musicologist and music theorist, discusses Bach’s approach to composition, and how it was bound up with his Weltanschauung, or his perspective on the world and the human condition. A Pietist Lutheran, much of his music is sacred in nature, but secular works — including keyboard suites, instrumental concerti, and organ masterpieces — are also an important part of his legacy.

This is a hybrid series of programs that will take place both live at the Library, and virtually over Zoom. For a full experience we recommend attending this program live at the Library.

Scroll to the bottom of the screen to register for the In-Person option and you will receive an email reminder.  Include a cell for a text reminder.

Would you prefer instead to attend the program virtually over Zoom? Click here to register for the virtual event. 

Great Composers Dates & Topics:

• Part I March 27 — Bach’s Pursuit of Musical Perfection
• Part II April 24 —  Mozart: The Ultimate Wunderkind
• Part III May 15 — Beethoven’s Musical Language

About Our Speaker

Gil Harel (PhD, Brandeis University) is a musicologist and music theorist whose interests include styles ranging from western classical repertoire to jazz and musical theater. Previously, he served on the faculty at CUNY Baruch College (where he was awarded the prestigious “Presidential Excellence Award for Distinguished Teaching”).

Currently, he is an Associate Professor of Music at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he has been presented with the AFT “Merit Award for Exemplary Service to the College” for 4 consecutive years. In 2020, he was honored with the coveted Connecticut Board of Regents (BOR) Teaching Award. At NVCC, Dr. Harel conducts the college chorale, a cappella ensemble, teaches music history and theory, and serves as musical director of theater productions.