The Creative Listener: Lecture and Workshop

The Creative Listener: Interdisciplinary Paths to Music Appreication was a course first taught at The Juilliard School's Extension Division in Summer 2025.

Have you ever wanted to experience the symphony but didn’t know where to begin? Perhaps you’ve wondered “Will I understand it?” or “What if I feel out of place?” Classical music can sometimes feel intimidating with its complex structures and unfamiliar terminology. But what if there’s a way to make it more approachable and meaningful?

This course breaks classical music down into its core elements—phrase, color, gesture, and cadence—while connecting them to other art forms like painting, dancing, acting, and writing. By exploring music through the lens of different artistic media, you’ll gain fresh insights and discover new ways to engage with classical pieces.

Perfect for all levels of experience, this discussion-based class invites you to build a more creative and interdisciplinary understanding of music. Each week, we’ll use a new artistic perspective to decode classical works, helping you connect with the music and gain confidence in classical music appreciation. Whether you’re a complete novice or an art enthusiast, this course offers a welcoming and exciting way to explore the world of classical music.