Great Masters: Stravinsky - His Life and Music

By: Robert Greenberg, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Robert Greenberg

Stravinsky composed what is arguably one of the two most important musical compositions of the twentieth century, The Rite of Spring. He forged a new "musical language" to portray the sense of the ballet's primitive and earthy theme. More than a dozen excerpts of Stravinsky's works are examined.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2000 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2000 The Great Courses

Greensberg presents the character of Stravinksy

Greensberg is engaging, comedic and relatable in his lecture style biography of Stravinsky. He talks not only of his life but offers great education about his compositional style and insets musical samples of his work where appropriate. I wish that the book came with lecture notes but did find them on The Great Courses website fortunately in order that I might more thoroughly examine the musical works mentioned.

Greatest 20th century composer I like

Robert Greenberg has done it again, Learn about the great Stravinsky and go to the ballet. Hunt up Dumbarton Oaks for a listen and you will be pleased with the results. I enjoy these great courses very much. I have now listened to all the composers that Robert has recorded, very enjoyable.

Very enjoyable overview of Stravinsky’s life and work.

Enjoyable and concise and as always told with great humor. Some wonderful anecdotes as well.

So much fun

very informative about his life and music. enjoyable. I intend to buy some of Stravinsky' s music work very soon.

I feel bad for those with no sense of humor

Robert Greenberg is extremely knowledgeable and is always able to present his information with enthusiasm. You will not fall asleep in his class, and he always throws in some humor to keep the material from being too heavy. Unfortunately, being light-hearted and knowledgeable annoys some listeners who prefer a somber presentation. I like Greenberg's style. But I discovered that I hate the "music" of Stravinsky. I listen to Greenberg's presentations for my own personal development vs a grade which might be the difference. I learned a great deal even though I cannot stand what I listened to, and began fast forwarding through the performances. I hope the next composer I choose will be a good one...