Congenial music educator and commentator Rob Kapilow is back for another delightful season, opening peoples’ ears—and minds—to what it is that makes a piece of music a masterpiece. Tonight's performance features the Bernstein Songbook.

Sunday, April 22, 2018 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Beginning in the 1830s, a century of unforgettable operatic masterpieces were created that helped to define a Russian musical identity distinct from predominant European styles. Part of a 6-session course, learn about the composers–from Glinka to Prokofiev–who left us a thrilling musical repertoire. This session focuses on Modest Mussorgsky.

Tuesday, April 24, 2018 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Acclaimed pianist, musicologist, and humorist John Eaton shares insights, fascinating observations, and performs selections from some of America’s legendary composers of Broadway and Hollywood musicals, in this engaging and entertaining 4-session series. And, of course, he always takes requests! This session focuses on Hoagy Carmichael.

Wednesday, April 25, 2018 - 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Scott Tucker, artistic director of the Choral Arts Society of Washington, explores the musical structure and cultural history of composer Gioachino Rossini’s beloved Stabat Mater. Recordings and a live performance by members of the Choral Arts Chorus provide musical context.

Wednesday, April 25, 2018 - 7:00 p.m.

In the distinctive musical language of the Romani people—developed from centuries of global influences—European composers found rich and passionate inspirations for their own works. Musical scholar Saul Lilienstein surveys its impact on classical works by Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, and others, as well as its echoes in flamenco and French jazz.

Saturday, April 28, 2018 - 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Beginning in the 1830s, a century of unforgettable operatic masterpieces were created that helped to define a Russian musical identity distinct from predominant European styles. Part of a 6-session course, learn about the composers–from Glinka to Prokofiev–who left us a thrilling musical repertoire. This session focuses on Alexander Borodin.

Tuesday, May 1, 2018 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Acclaimed pianist, musicologist, and humorist John Eaton shares insights, fascinating observations, and performs selections from some of America’s legendary composers of Broadway and Hollywood musicals, in this engaging and entertaining 4-session series. And, of course, he always takes requests! This session focuses on the Fabulous 40s.

Wednesday, May 2, 2018 - 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Beginning in the 1830s, a century of unforgettable operatic masterpieces were created that helped to define a Russian musical identity distinct from predominant European styles. Part of a 6-session course, learn about the composers–from Glinka to Prokofiev–who left us a thrilling musical repertoire. This session focuses on Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Acclaimed pianist, musicologist, and humorist John Eaton shares insights, fascinating observations, and performs selections from some of America’s legendary composers of Broadway and Hollywood musicals, in this engaging and entertaining 4-session series. And, of course, he always takes requests! This session focuses on Hollywood.

Wednesday, May 9, 2018 - 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Mark and Jay Duplass are writers, directors, producers, and actors who’ve turned collaboration into a family affair. They made their moviemaking debut with a breakthrough short they produced on a $3 budget. Their next feature film provoked a distribution-rights bidding war at the Sundance Festival! Hear them describe their remarkable journey from the suburbs of New Orleans to success in Hollywood.

Thursday, May 10, 2018 - 6:45 p.m.

Beginning in the 1830s, a century of unforgettable operatic masterpieces were created that helped to define a Russian musical identity distinct from predominant European styles. Part of a 6-session course, learn about the composers–from Glinka to Prokofiev–who left us a thrilling musical repertoire. This session focuses on Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov.

Tuesday, May 15, 2018 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

In this 4-session lecture series, noted specialists explore architecture, music, gardens, and art at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue—a place where every decision, no matter how innocuous, has political ramifications. Participants receive a copy of each speaker’s corresponding large-format book published by the White House Historical Association. This session focuses on White House music.

Thursday, May 17, 2018 - 6:45 p.m.

Beginning in the 1830s, a century of unforgettable operatic masterpieces were created that helped to define a Russian musical identity distinct from predominant European styles. Part of a 6-session course, learn about the composers–from Glinka to Prokofiev–who left us a thrilling musical repertoire. This session focuses on Sergey Prokofiev.

Tuesday, May 22, 2018 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

David Korin’s name may not be on the marquee, but his role in Hamilton is a major—and highly visible—one. The production designer for the show that has become a cultural phenomenon discusses the meticulous research, collaboration, and sheer hard work that went into creating and building every detail of the setting against which the musical plays out.

Thursday, May 31, 2018 - 6:45 p.m.

Musicologist and pianist Daniel E. Freeman offers insights into the unique appeal of Schubert’s best symphonies and the musical environment from which they originated. He also provides tips on how to listen to these beloved works with a greater appreciation of the techniques that the composer used to create them.

Saturday, June 16, 2018 - 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Her decades of stardom and struggle were marked by bouts of alcohol and drug abuse, multiple divorces, and career swings, but Judy Garland remains one of the greatest interpreters of American popular song. American music specialist Robert Wyatt explores highlights from her extraordinary life with clips from her movies and televion specials.

Wednesday, June 27, 2018 - 6:45 p.m.

Director Jack Marshall and friends explore how Gilbert and Sullivan’s genius still adapts easily to contemporary issues and art forms, resonates with modern audiences, and is reflected in the roots of America’s own distinctive theatrical form, the musical.

Saturday, June 30, 2018 - 9:30 a.m.

The scenic and historic Berkshire hills of western Massachusetts are alive with music, art, and theatre. Journalist Richard Selden leads a 5-day tour that offers a splendid sampling of cultural attractions in the region, from historic writers’ homes to outstanding museums to music and theatre performances.

Depart: Sunday, July 29, 2018 - 6:30 a.m.
Return: Thursday, August 2, 2018 - 9:30 p.m.