Peer Review

Benjamin Zander: The transformative power of classical music

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Overview:: The YouTube video "Benjamin Zander: The transformative power of classical music" is a lecture presentation by pianist and conductor Benjamin Zander. Mr. Zander brings his audience through an appreciation of a Chopin Prelude. The goal is to teach listeners to hear the "long line" in a musical composition and draw meaning from the experience.
Type of Material:: Video presentation.
Recommended Uses:: This video is recommended for students who are developing and preparing outreach music programs. Music appreciation class. This could also be useful in a class about organizational structure, business or other kinds of classes that are concerned with bringing people together.
Technical Requirements:: A standard video browser.
Identify Major Learning Goals:: This video is an excellent model for students who are developing outreach programs. The video demonstrates a clear structure for an outreach lecture-presentation and demonstrates strategies for engaging an audience. The video also provides a strong point of view for classroom discussions on audience development as well as the purpose and value of music.
Target Student Population:: College and high school level students.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:: No pre-requisites needed to understand or use this video.

Rating:
Strengths:: The strength of this video is in the step-by-step method in which Mr. Zander presents musical ideas and cultivates a broad appreciation of classical music. The information presented is accurate.
Concerns:: No concerns.

Rating:
Strengths:: Students may use this video as a model for their own outreach presentations. The lecture-presentation has a clear step-by-step structure. Students may follow Mr. Zanders' structure but substitute their own content. A teacher could facilitate the process for students by pointing out the structure and offering examples how different content could be substituted.
Concerns:: No concerns.

Other Issues and Comments:: It might be useful to preview the video before showing it in a class. It may not resonate in all cases but Zander's engaging and motivational speaking style is sure to be an audience grabber.
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