Drawing on basic forms of music in their communities, artists celebrate their times in song. From the sincere yearning of Ben E King’s “Stand By Me” to the heartfelt wisdom of Dolly Parton; from the raw commentary of Buffy Sainte-Marie to the smooth pickin’ of Chet Atkins and the heartland sound of The Band, they lit the way for today’s modern acoustic songwriters.

This course will examine the work, biographies and enduring importance of these musical artists, and attempt to sort myth from reality, using updated videos and excerpts from feature films, live performances and a few surprises. This lecture will be offered live in-person and via video recording in addition to an option for both.