Johannes Brahms, the Romantic Classic
December 1st - 6th 2013
Brahms (1833-1897) is one of the acknowledged great composers of the nineteenth-century, ranked with Mozart, Haydn and Beethoven as an upholder of the German classical instrumental tradition.
But, writing at a time when the romantic movement was in full flow, he can only be described as a Romantic composer. He is admired today for his intellectual vigour and his supreme craftsmanship; for the depth of emotion shown in his works, but an emotion which avoided the excesses of Wagner and Liszt and some other contemporaries. Brahms was the inheritor of a tradition rather than an innovator, occupying a somewhat isolated position in his last years. But his works gained the admiration in England of the early 20th century composers, Stanford, Parry and Elgar and broadcasts of his music today are frequent and recordings are numerous.
Brahms’ output is extensive: his orchestral works, concertos, smaller-scale piano works are well-known as are many of his 24 chamber works and his Requiem has never lost its place in the repertoire of amateur choral societies. However, not all his chamber works and songs are familiar to non-specialist musicians and special attention will be given to the composer’s less familiar chamber works.
As ever this course will continue the long tradition of Rothay Manor holidays where the aim is to further enjoyment and love of fine music in good company and pleasant surroundings. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal with discussions free of unnecessary technical jargon.
The holiday will include a professional recital of music for cello and piano by two young artists at the 
threshold of their careers: Svetlana Mochalova, cello, and Slava Siderenko, piano. Both young artists made a deep impression when they first played for us in 2011, so much so that we have invited them back for a third time. They are both prize winners and experienced recitalists, having appeared at the prestigious Wigmore Hall in London and many other venues. Their recital in 2013 will include Brahm’s first Sonata for cello and piano works by Brahms.
Prices are per person for the 5 nights and include full Cumbrian breakfast, morning coffee, 3-course dinner and VAT @ 20%.
Non-participating partners are welcome, and there is a reduction of £50 on the above prices for them.
A
deposit of £150 per person is required for the holidays, which can be made by cheque or credit card. This is non-refundable unless the room is subsequently relet; cancellation insurance is available.
TUTOR
Clive Walkley (M.Phil.B.Mus.G.T.C.L.) studied at Trinity College of Music and London University. He spent over thirty years of his professional life working in Teacher Education in Ambleside, and latterly before retirement as a part-time Lecturer in Music and Music Education at Lancaster University.
He lives in Kendal where he is a church organist, a cellist and the conductor of the well-known South Cumbrian chamber choir, The Pro Nobis Singers. His interests include composition, editing and researching early music. His publications include a booklet of ‘Warm-Up’ Rounds, numerous short choral pieces and carols (animus music), and editions of the music of the 16th-century Spanish church composer, Juan Esquivel (Mapa Mundi). In 2010 he finally completed a book on the life and work of this composer.