Vienna, Prague, and Paris are world-class cities with revered musical roots in classical, jazz, and folk traditions. Historical musical traditions and new musical avenues are cultivated in these cities and being lived in all parts of society—from concert houses to jazz clubs to street music. Through this program’s courses and field experiences, students will focus on the foundation and evolution of European musical expression and culture. As they travel through these cities, students will reflect on the influence of music in their own experiences and on their communities while attending performances, tours, and in conversations with artists and musicians, ranging from orchestral and sacred repertoire to the vernacular of local folk music to the influence of jazz on Europe.
Students will explore first-hand how music shapes the spirit of humanity, both through the individual and in societies. This program nurtures relationships with musical compositions and performances that have inspired generations of political, social, cultural, and religious movements in every part of the world, from Western Europe to South America, Asia, and Africa. By the end of the program, students will have a deep understanding of music intrinsic to global culture.