In partnership with ASU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), Mesa Arts Center Opportunities for 55+ are proud to offer this free lecture series.

On a cold, rainy evening late in November of 1917, a tall, reclusive figure stood on a darkened platform at Moscow’s Nikolayevski Station awaiting the night train bound for St. Petersburg. Thus, began the Westward flight of Sergei Rachmaninoff — a composer once considered by many throughout the world to be the heir apparent to Tchaikovsky. Now, as he risked death at the hands of the newly formed Communist government, he sought desperately to find refuge for himself and his family. He had already achieved international fame for his piano concertos and orchestral works, but by the time he reached America, he discovered that the Soviets had confiscated his copyrights, so he was forced to become, at the age of 45, a touring concert pianist — and by the estimates of most, he became the greatest of all time. Using recorded and live examples at the piano, this course will examine both the life and music of the man who some characterized as a 19th-century composer living in a 20th-century world. Space is limited! 

Coffee and refreshments will be provided with every class. 

Date: Thursdays | November 2, 9, and 16

Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Mesa Arts Center | Drama Studio | 2nd Floor, South Studios Building 

To Register:

This event is sold out!

There is NO fee for participation in this class.