Discovering Classical Music (daytime) - Part 2

Course overview

This is a follow-on course for Discovering Classical Music - Part 1 (held September to December 2025), although it can be taken as a course on its own.

Are you baffled by Brahms? Perplexed by Prokofiev? Stumped by Strauss?

On this course join Dr Bruno Bower on a journey to discover new ways to understand classical music, without any of the obscure jargon. Knowing who, how, and why people created, played, and listened to music makes it much easier to relate to the deeper levels of texture and structure that lie behind the sounds we hear.

Each session will focus on different musical concepts, structures, genres, and historical periods, guiding learners through a rich and engaging exploration of the Western classical tradition.

The course is suitable for people with or without previous knowledge of classical music. You will gain fresh perspectives on famous works of classical music, and discover lesser-known pieces along the way.

This course is open to everyone, with no previous experience necessary. All welcome!

This course is held in association with the Kensington and Chelsea Women's Club.

Term dates

•  Spring Term: week beginning 5 January until week ending 27 March 2026 (no class on 20 February)

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the tutor, Dr Bruno Bower: b.bower@imperial.ac.uk

For general programme and enrolment questions please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi: c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).