The music of the Boulangers: Nadia and Lili

About this course

This course examines the contrasting careers and musical achievements of sisters Lili and Nadia Boulanger. It considers Lili’s compositions and early recognition, alongside Nadia’s work as a composer, conductor, pianist and influential teacher, including her impact on American composers. Teaching combines lectures with discussion, quizzes, guided listening, video material and score study. The course also places the sisters’ music within the context of contemporary French music and explores how their different compositional approaches can be understood in relation to one another.

What you'll learn

• Identify significant biographical events in the lives of Lili and Nadia Boulanger
• Summarise Nadia Boulanger’s contribution as a teacher
• Compare the sisters’ compositional approaches
• Relate their music to contemporary French musical traditions

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for learners at various levels and does not require music-reading skills. Although labelled Beginner (A1), it is most suited to those with a basic knowledge of classical music or regular experience listening to Western classical music. Sessions involve discussion, quizzes and guided listening.

• A basic understanding of classical music terminology is advised
• Little or no previous experience of listening to Western classical music may make an introductory course more suitable

Before you go

• Handouts, scores and links to online videos are shared through Google Classroom.
• Extra reading and listening outside class is encouraged; music books and recordings discussed during the course may be purchased separately.