No musical background is required for this class, only a curiosity about how composers use the elements of music (intervals, chords, melody) to fashion metaphors in sound for the experiences of life. Rick will share these elements “before your very ears,” demonstrating and improvising on a keyboard in the classroom. We’ll also listen to scores, some by Rick, to discover composers’ “tricks.” We’ll tackle some big questions. Does music mean anything? If musical gestures “metaphorize” life experiences and states of mind, then how? What is greatness in music?

Moderator: Rick Sowash is a composer and author. He publishes his own sheet music, CDs, and books. His music is heard on classical music radio including WGUC. His clarinet concerto was recorded by the St. Petersburg Symphony. His cello concerto premiered at Carnegie Hall. He has written 400 works of music and eight books. More info at www.sowash.com.