This course surveys music of the nineteenth century in Europe and America, from the last years of Beethoven’s career into the early days of sound recording. We will explore how composers sought extremes of emotional expression and meaning in music, just as performers pursued greater heights of technical display and audiences listened with a new depth of attention. We will also trace the emergence in this century of musical figures and institutions still familiar in the present day, including professional symphony orchestras, touring soloists, conservatories, chamber music societies, and music critics. Course activities center around listening, analysis of primary sources, and writing about music. Not offered 2026-27.