Submitted by First Parish on the Common, Unitarian Universalist
The Bedford Lyceum: A Weekly Forum on the Arts, Spirituality, Science, and Justice presents Roger Hall, a scholar and composer of traditional Shaker music from 11:45 am until 1 pm on Sunday, November 15 in the Sanctuary at First Parish Church on Bedford Common.
The United Society of Shakers is America’s oldest communal society, founded in the 1780s. They are among the most prolific religious folk cultures having composed over 10,000 tunes from the 18th to 20th centuries. Much of their early music was composed in New York State and New England.
Shaker music will be the focus of Hall’s program, and will include two of their best-known Shaker songs, “Give Good Gifts” (heard on NPR radio) and “Simple Gifts” (performed in arrangements by Aaron Copland at inauguration ceremonies for President Ronald Reagan and President Bill Clinton). He will share some history, pictures and video clips, and Brad Conner has assembled a wonderful quartet of singers Buffie Groves, Larry Herz, Laura Kalb, and Carol Krusemark, who will give live renditions of some the music Hall will be discussing.
The Bedford Lyceum, a public forum that focuses on topics of wide-ranging interest, takes place at First Parish on the Common each week. This Sunday The Lyceum will meet from 11:45 am until 1:00 pm in the Sanctuary on the first floor. It is fully accessible using the church’s Elm Street entrance. The Lyceum is open to the public. To learn more about First Parish, visit its website, www.uubedford.org.
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