Go Your Own Way: After Sonata Form

Sonata form dominated the classical era—but it didn’t last forever. In this capstone session, we explore what came next: how composers stretched, bent, and reinvented the traditional blueprint to fit new expressive needs. We’ll listen for the “giveaways” of experimentation—unexpected returns, transformed themes, and fresh large-scale designs—so you can hear innovation as it happens.

About Music 101 Lecture Series

Engage with history in this introduction to Western classical music! Led by Michael Gerdes, Director of Orchestras at San Diego State University and a longtime guest lecturer for our organization, this free, five-part public series is designed for anyone curious about the composers, works, and cultural movements that shaped the music we know and love. No prior musical background is required. Each lecture builds on the previous one, yet every session stands on its own, so you can join at any point in the series.

No tickets will be issued or required, but we kindly ask that you RSVP.