Vivaldi's Four Seasons on Their 300th Anniversary

Vivaldi's concertos ‘The Four Seasons’ were first published 300 years ago in Amsterdam, reaching their final form that year. The composer had worked on them for several years, completing them while serving at the court of Mantua. Their initial success throughout Europe was followed by unjust neglect following the composer’s death. It was only in the 2nd half of the 20th century that a revival of interest in this magnificent music began. The concertos now have an ‘iconic’ status. Various outstanding recordings of them will be compared as the context and reception history of the concerts is discussed and illustrated.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face-to-Face

COURSE OUTLINE

• Vivaldi’s career and the composition of his ‘Four Seasons’
• Their publication in Amsterdam and dissemination throughout Europe
• The neglect of Vivaldi’s music after his death
• The rediscovery of Vivaldi and his music in the 2nd half of the 20th century – the phenomenal success and appeal of the ‘The Four Seasons’ today

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Distinguish the major characteristics of Vivaldi’s concerto form and its appeal to other 18th century composers and audiences
2. Appreciate the importance of the revival of Vivaldi’s music and greater appreciation of his artistic aims and performance styles appropriate to his music
3. Discuss the inspiration of ‘The Four Seasons’ concerts – their literary associations
4. Outline the major differences in the interpretation of the works heard in the class