Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
2025-2026 Membership is now Open for Registration.
Unlocking the Keys to Musical Expression
Speaker
Professor Michael Gerdes
Coordinator
Nancy Neigus
Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, Terry Riley’s “In C” and Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”—what do they have in common? They are all in the key of C major. Does it matter? Is D minor really the saddest key? From medieval cathedrals to baroque affectations to the invention of the capo, composers have been fascinated by key areas and pitch centers. In this lecture we will unlock the key to understanding musical keys.
Speaker Bio
Presenter: Michael Gerdes is an associate professor of music and director of orchestral studies at San Diego State University. A conductor, performer, educator and former dive bar keyboardist, Gerdes has built the program into a thriving community of orchestral musicians. With degrees in both philosophy and music, Gerdes lectures for La Jolla Music Society and Salon de Musiques. Recently he was assistant conductor for the La Jolla Music Society Summerfest ensemble.
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