We'll trace the evolution of classical music from the middle ages to the modern era, examining styles and trends through various musical periods. We'll also listen to excerpts from major composers ranging from Bach to John Williams as case studies, diving into specific pieces and the juicy lore behind them. Examples of particular things we'll focus on include the curse of the 9th symphony (and the various ways composers have tried avoiding it), what Tchaikovsky No.6 could reveal about his death, and etc other ways composers' music has been intimately intertwined with the historical and personal context from which they originate. No prior musical experience required.