A Concise History of Classical Music

Please join us for this 60 minute lecture/demonstration in which Dr. Harold Rosenbaum tells the history of Western Classical Music from ancient times to the present.  He will discuss the formation and evolution of musical genres including opera, symphonies, and concertos (and more), plus the circumstances that led to the creation of these works.  Musical demonstrations at the piano will highlight and display excerpts of many of these works and will demonstrate the evolving styles that composers from each period first abided by, and then expanded, thus changing history and influencing others to do the same.  You won't want to miss this amazing musical journey presented by conductor, professor, music historian and author, Dr. Harold Rosenbaum.

Recognized among the premier current interpreters of choral music, Dr. Harold Rosenbaum is a singular force in vocal ensemble performance. The award-winning founder and conductor of the distinguished professional choir The New York Virtuoso Singers and celebrated volunteer choir The Canticum Novum Singers, Rosenbaum attracts the finest choral talent from New York City and around the country to his world-class productions. Inspiring singers and audiences alike with gripping interpretations of both contemporary and classical compositions, he brings a profound wealth of technical ability and expertise to the creation of rich musical experiences. In addition to his work with CNS and NYVS, Rosenbaum is also a much sought-after guest conductor, clinician, adjudicator, funding panelist, coach, lecturer, and consultant. He has led various American choirs on 31 choral tours of Europe, Canada, and Costa Rica and has worked with many of the best ensembles and organizations in the world. Beyond his numerous professional commitments, Rosenbaum has shared his skill and passion as an active educator. He is Professor Emeritus at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, where he directed the choirs and headed the graduate program in choral conducting. Previously, he taught at the Juilliard School, Queens College, and Adelphi University. Rosenbaum has received numerous honors throughout his career, including the 2008 American Composer Alliance Laurel Leaf Award for “distinguished achievement in fostering and encouraging the performance of new American works,” ASCAP’s 2010 Victor Herbert Award for Distinguished Service to American Music “in recognition of his contribution to the choral repertory and his service to American composers and their music,” and the 2014 Ditson Conductor’s Award. He is also a four-time recipient of the ASCAP/Chorus American Award for Adventuresome Programming of Contemporary Music and a winner of Chorus American’s American Choral Work Performance Award. 

A life-long resident of New York, Rosenbaum studied at Queens College (BA ’72, MA ’74). In 2011 he was recognized for his many achievements with an honorary doctorate from his alma mater.

Registration suggested.