Z Online Class: A Zoom invitation link will be sent one day before class begins.
Aaron Copland (1900-1990) and Amy Beach (1867-1944), both born and raised in America, are considered to be among the greatest American composers, and measure up to the very best in the world for the modern and romantic eras, respectively. Scott Yoo’s “Great Performances – Now Hear This” music-filled documentaries titled Aaron Copland: Dean of American Music, and Amy Beach: American Romantic, were just completed for the PBS 2021-2022 season. The videos feature excerpts from each composer’s most famous works, including Copland’s Appalachian Spring, Piano Variations, Our Town, and Fanfare for the Common Man; and Beach’s Gaelic Symphony, Hermit Thrush at Morn, and Romance for Violin and Piano, among others. Mr. Yoo discusses the evolution of each composer, to find the right blend of the American experience and European-style classical pieces.
Toby Teorey is the current Vice-Chair of the Elderwise Council. He is retired from the College of Engineering at the University of Michigan and in retirement pursues his enduring love of classical music and world culture.