Classical Music in 1824

By 1824, the composers of the Baroque and Classical eras were long dead and the Romantic Era was dawning. This talk by Margaret McAlpine and Cliff Haresign will focus on works composed or premiered in 1824, especially the music of Schubert and Beethoven.

Vienna was still the centre of the musical world at this time, but London was very much a part of the European musical scene. Bath was one of the few places outside London with its own music festival that year.

With a generous selection of musical excerpts, Cliff and Margaret will explore works by the great figures of the day, alongside composers who are still in the repertoire today. They will also mention some who were popular at the time but – unjustly some would say – have drifted into obscurity.

Cliff Haresign spent his whole career in industry, but music has always been important to him. He has played the piano, organ and French horn, and for the last twenty-five years has sung in choirs, including Bath Bach Choir. A highlight was a period in the CBSO Chorus, giving direct experience of performing with some of the world’s greatest musicians.

Margaret McAlpine has had a lifelong interest in history, which was her degree subject, but also in music, attending concerts, operas and festivals including Aldeburgh each year, and The Three Choirs Festival since moving to Bath.

We also have a talk in October on Beethoven’s 9th Symphony – see here for details.