Courses for 2026–27

COURSE OFFERED FALL 2026

Course level: Postgraduate
Faculty: Elisabeth Reisinger
Co-teachers:Heinz-Peter Linshalm, Petra Stump-Linshalm
Contact:reisinger-e@mdw.ac.at
University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna

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Elements of Sound Part I&II

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Inspired by diverse cultural and philosophical interpretations of four and five element concepts – from the sustainability dimensions of the 2030 Agenda (People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, Partnership) to Daoist and Aristotelian traditions (Earth, Water, Fire, Wood, Metal / Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Aether), the cardinal directions (North, South, East, West, Center), and other element‑based worldviews – this international course series brings together students from across the Global Conservatoire network to explore music, sustainability, and intercultural collaboration.

Part I provides the conceptual and musicological foundation for the project. Closely linked to a concert at the GC Transnational Meeting in Vienna in April 2027, the course examines how different element concepts have shaped musical thinking and artistic expression. Students engage with selected readings, discussions, and case studies focusing primarily on Western art music, with the option to include non‑European perspectives depending on group interest.

Part II translates these ideas into artistic practice. Students work on shaping the concert format for the final performance and prepare for the programme, which includes both the element‑themed pieces discussed in Part I and a newly commissioned piece created specifically for the final concert in Vienna on 15 April 2027. Through collaborative rehearsals via MVTP and on-site in Vienna and artistic planning, the conceptual work of Part I becomes a shared performance experience.

To ensure a well‑balanced ensemble for the element-themed pieces as well as for the newly commissioned composition, the terms of participation are as follows:

• Nominated students: Each GC institution nominates 2–4 students who take part in both Elements of Sound courses and travel to Vienna for rehearsals and performances (11–16 April 2027). This group forms the core ensemble for the final concert.
• Open participation in Part I: Up to two additional students per institution may join Elements of Sound – Part I to engage with the conceptual and musicological aspects of the project.

PART I – Analysis, Context and Artistic Exploration

Credits: 2 ECTS
Course Format:

• Online international seminar
• Conceptual and analytical work
• Repertoire exploration

Dates of synchronous sessions (Zoom):

• 05.10.2026: 4.30pm – 5.30pm (Vienna local time)
• 19.10.2026: 4pm – 5.30pm (Vienna local time)
• 16.11.2026: 4pm – 5.30pm (Vienna local time)
• 07.12.2026: 4pm – 5.30pm (Vienna local time)

Topics Include:
Musical symbolism, sustainability, repertoire exploration, intercultural collaboration, artistic planning

MORE INFORMATION ON PART II