New York City is one of the great subjects of American popular music. Even when a song never mentions New York, it’s still a city song in its outlook, point of view, and sensibility. Much of it comes from a combination of African-American syncopation and conversational lyrics first used by Irish and Jewish songwriters in Tin Pan Alley. You might even say that without the children of slaves and cast-offs, there would be no such thing as an American sound.
Michael Lasser, is a former teacher and theater critic. He is host of the Peabody Award winning, syndicated public-radio show "Fascinatin' Rhythm." "He doesn’t sing and he doesn’t dance, but he knows all there is to know about American popular music....He is a walking encyclopedia of American song.” Jeff Tyzik, Principal Pops Conductor , Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
Autographed copies of his book "City Songs" will be available for #35.00
The program is based on the museum’s newest exhibit, Rumrunners, Speakeasies, and Bathtub Gin. What a colorful time in our history. Latta Road was condemned as “the highway to hell,” the most dangerous gang of rum runners in Western New York lived in Greece, and police and Coast Guard pursuits often ended with bullets flying. Maureen spent eight months researching the events and personalities of the time and curated our current exhibit.
We will have many beautiful items here for you to see by local crafters. Our Museum Shop will also be open. This is a perfect opportunity to avoid the chaos at the Mall and find a unique gift for your family and friends.
1:30 pm: MUSEUM OPEN
7:00 pm: City Songs & American Life
