Lowell Lecture
Lowell Bicentennial Lecture Series -
Date & Time
Oct. 2, 2013
Location
Constitution Inn
150 Third Avenue Charlestown, MA 02129
Driving Directions
Speaker(s)
Dr. David Hildebrand is a specialist in early American music, focusing recently on music of the War of 1812. David's M.A. and Ph.D. are in musicology, from George Washington University and Catholic University. He also teaches American music history at the Peabody Conservatory and writes for the Johns Hopkins University Press
Presenting Organization
USS Constitution Museum
Topics
The War of 1812 spawned a huge variety of songs in America. From the early stirrings of party politics under President Adams and the traumatic effect of Jefferson's Embargo in 1807, through the triumph at Fort McHenry, and the last battle in New Orleans, Americans took pen to paper to tear at political opponents, to dramatize the great sea battles between huge frigates in full sail, and to laud battle heroes like Hull and Perry. In addition, songs of ridicule, sentimental ballads of love and separation, and songs encouraging enlistments were sung at home, on the streets, and in theaters. This program climaxes in the true telling of the birth of "The Star-Spangled Banner" in September, 1814, dispelling several lingering myths along the way. Dr. Hildebrand will perform several musical selections accompanied by period images. [www.1812music.org] Reception to follow. PLEASE NOTE: VENUE CHANGE - The Constitution Inn, 150 Third Ave., Charlestown, MA