In 1972, renowned composer Leonard Bernstein returned to his alma mater, Harvard, as the Charles Eliot Norton Professor of Poetry. His lectures, delivered in the fall of 1973 and collectively titled "The Unanswered Question," delve into the complex interplay of various disciplines:
Throughout the 11 hours of lectures, Bernstein masterfully navigates these topics, consistently bringing the focus back to music and its underlying grammar. The series is celebrated as a masterpiece, showcasing Bernstein's ability to make complex material accessible and engaging.
The Musical Syntax module builds upon the concepts introduced in phonology, focusing on how musical elements combine to create meaning. Bernstein investigates:
Students will gain an understanding of how the structure of music influences its emotional and intellectual impact.
In the Musical Semantics module, Bernstein delves into the meaning behind music. He explores how music conveys emotions and narratives, discussing:
This module encourages students to consider music not just as sound, but as a powerful form of communication.
The module titled The Delights & Dangers of Ambiguity examines the role of ambiguity in music. Bernstein discusses:
This exploration helps students appreciate the nuanced layers of meaning that ambiguity can bring to music.
The 20th Century Crisis module addresses the challenges faced by composers in the modern era. Bernstein tackles topics such as:
Through this discussion, students will gain insight into the shifting landscape of music during the 20th century and its implications for future compositions.
The final module, The Poetry of Earth, reflects on the intrinsic connection between music and nature. Bernstein emphasizes:
Students are encouraged to explore the poetic qualities of music and how they resonate with our experiences of the natural world.