We’re all familiar with many outstanding songs from the early days of Rock and Roll such as Elvis Presley’s “Love Me Tender,” The Flamingos’ “I Only Have Eyes For You,” and “Night” by Jackie Wilson. What is less known, and often little appreciated, is that the melodies for those songs, as well as many others recorded during the ’50s and ’60s, were written decades or in some cases centuries earlier and have their roots in classical music, grand opera, or Broadway shows. Relive a dozen or so examples of songs in this category, compare them to the original version, and examine how the adaption from classical themes to Rock 'n Roll standards was successfully accomplished. Led by Rich Knox, a retired school teacher and administrator, who lectures on musicals, films, and opera to libraries across the country.

Please register here

In collaboration with the Tewksbury Public Library.

Thanks to the Friends of the Bedford Free Public Library.

RECORDING NOTE: This program will be recorded. All registrants will receive the recoding via email within 48 hours of the program.