A Yidishe Meydl:  Women's Life in Yiddish Folk Songs    

Faculty: Merle Roesler and Elaine Winic

All aspects of women’s lives have been reflected in Yiddish songs. From the fear of pogroms in Eastern Europe to the drudgery of millwork in America, from partisan resistance in Poland to thoughts of finding Gan Eden in both Eretz Yisroel and America, from love of traditional family life to the wish for independence and new experiences -- a range of sentiments have found their way into Yiddish songs. We will discuss and sing a sampling of these songs, and hopefully trigger some conversation, memories, and insights.

Gershwin’s Magical Melodies                                            

Faculty: Bob Moverman

Certainly no musical composer or songwriter captured the “essence of America” in the 1920s and 1930s more brilliantly than George Gershwin. Gershwin wrote many popular songs, show tunes, jazz and classical compositions. Although he did not write “Jewish music” per se, much of his music is infused with elements borne from his heritage and the cultural diversity that typified (and continues to typify) America. This presentation will look at Gershwin the man and his music, including the playing (live and recorded) of key selections from his repertoire.

Register at www.mvjf.org