Join us for a FREE two-part America 250 lecture series at the Bel Air Armory!
Beginning in the 1920’s, popular music was largely created by the American Songbook artists, who created an enduring cultural legacy in song. Elvis changed everything. By the late 50s, these earlier songwriters were out of business. The generational shift brought on by the Baby Boomers fostered radical changes in pop music, including the emergence of rock and roll, R&B, and the folk music revival.
Lecturer Julie Kurzava examines how the post war social upheaval is reflected in popular music in the mid 50’s and early 60’s.
(May 12) Part 1: R&B and the establishment of Rock & Roll
(May 19) Part 2: Social upheaval through song
The lecture series will be held on Tuesdays, May 12 and 19, 2026, from 9:45 am to noon each day (with a short break). Participants only need to reserve a spot for May 12, and you are welcome to come to one or both dates. Reserve tickets here!
This series is made possible through the Bel Air Arts and Entertainment District with a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council.
