Fall 2024 Potpourri III

November 04 — Paramount Blues: Historic Grafton Music Label with Peter Roller
Join us for this music-filled class about Paramount Records, Grafton and Port Washington-based label that recorded and distributed the earliest blues created by African Americans. Following the label’s timeline from 1917 til 1933 when the Depression drove it out of business, songs by Paramount performers will be played that define the original Classic Blues and Country Blues substyles. Broader ideas about the label’s departure from continued segregation and unequal treatment of African Americans during the time of its operation, as well as the creativity and subtle protest found in artists’ songs, will be considered. Live performance to demonstrate the formative blues guitar styles of Paramount artists will also be included.

November 11 — The Most Radical Abolitionist in History with Helen Adelt
More than 100 years before the Civil War and 200 years before guerrilla theater protests, a diminutive Quaker in Philadelphia confronted both institutions and individuals about the immorality of slavery. Yes, he wrote pamphlets and made speeches, but he also performed dramatic direct action protests and lived his life in strict accordance with his beliefs, as a tee-totaling vegetarian who made his own linen for clothes. Meet the most radical, fascinating Abolitionist you’ve never heard of.

November 18 — Osher Travelogue: Holland, Germany and Belgium with Greg Jenks
On September 19, 39 Osher members joined Laurie Yingling on a 10-night tour of central Europe. This presentation will recap the highlights of the trip and take you along as we experience the history, art and beauty of these charming countries. We’ll also share the good times members had together as we tasted the local cuisine and sampled the native beverages.