Beethoven Part 1: The Concert of December 22, 1808

Beethoven had just turned 38 when what was perhaps the most remarkable concert of his career took place. During the performance, several important new works (including his Symphony no. 5, Symphony no. 6, Piano Concerto no. 4, and more) were premiered for a musically hungry Viennese audience. Despite the length of the concert (4 hours) and the unusually cold temperatures both in and out of the hall, Beethoven's works captivated the audience and left an indelible mark on music history. Join Professor Gil Harel as he takes the community on a guided tour of this landmark event in the celebrated career of one of history's best-known composers. 

About Gil Harel

Gil Harel (PhD, Brandeis University) is a musicologist and music theorist whose interests include styles ranging from western classical repertoire to jazz and musical theater. Previously, he served on the faculty at CUNY Baruch College (where he was awarded the prestigious "Presidential Excellence Award for Distinguished Teaching").

Currently, he is an Associate Professor of Music at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he has been presented with the AFT "Merit Award for Exemplary Service to the College" for 4 consecutive years. In 2020, he was honored with the coveted Connecticut Board of Regents (BOR) Teaching Award. At NVCC, Dr. Harel conducts the college chorale, a cappella ensemble, teaches music history and theory, and serves as musical director of theater productions.