The Birth of Rock and Roll: The Pioneers, 1954–1964
Thursdays, May 17–June 14, 1:30–3:30 p.m. (5 sessions)
ADMISSION
- $100 General
- $80 Members
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Learn about the rebels, pioneers, and groundbreaking musicians who shaped American rock and roll.
At the end of World War II, a new era was dawning. American GIs were coming home, populations were moving from the cities to the suburbs, and teenagers were coming of age and looking to find their own music, different from the big bands and Sinatra crooners of their parents. Rebellious new attitudes, economic prosperity, and musical innovators all combined to create a new wave of artists who broke through musical, social, and racial barriers. These pioneers are still an influence on the music we hear today.
From Elvis to The Beach Boys, from R&B to rockabilly, from doo wop to surf music, from American Bandstand to the West Coast sound, this class covers the pioneers of rock and roll, including rare videos and personal stories about the legendary musicians who shaped a national culture.
This term, the class will include a special session with rock and roll legend Mike Stoller, co-writer (with Jerry Leiber) of many of the era’s greatest hits including “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Poison Ivy,” and “Little Egypt.” Class registrants gain free admission to the talk.
Instructor: Steve Barri is a composer, lyricist, music industry executive, and musical theater enthusiast. As vice president of Dunhill Records, he was involved in signing several notable acts, including Steely Dan, Jimmy Buffet, and Three Dog Night. While working at Warner Bros. and Motown Records, Barri was a producer for Lionel Richie and served as advisor for the soundtrack of The Big Chill.
ADVANCE TICKETS: AVAILABLE ON SITE AT THE SKIRBALL, ONLINE USING THE "BUY TICKETS ONLINE" BUTTON ABOVE, OR BY PHONE AT (877) 722-4849, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
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