As a nation of transplants, American culture evolved from a veritable hodgepodge of European influences—but once soulful African storytelling coupled with polyrhythmic beats merged with the European music of the time, this country truly became the center for musical innovation. And that change inspired the world’s jazz, blues, funk, hip-hop, R&B, and pop artists for generations. Larry Maurer, educator and expert in American music and performers, discusses this influence and brings music from the past back to life during his lecture “Timeless Melodies: African American Contributions to Popular Music.”
Thu., June 28, 1:30 p.m., 2012
