Class Description
The New York Times stated - “In his life and his music, Cole Porter was the top… the pinnacle of wit and sophistication. From the 1910s through the ’50s, Porter delighted audiences with a glittering torrent of song: ‘Night and Day,’ ‘Love For Sale,’ ‘Begin the Beguine.’ Their subtle qualities and their musical and emotional depth have made them lasting standards, among the greatest glories of the American songbook.”
This class will focus on Porter’s musical successes (as well as his failures) to examine how he achieved his greatness. You will be able to see for yourself why his melodies, harmonies, and lyrics were enchanting. He is considered one of the most creative lyricists of the 20th century, in the same league as Noel Coward and Stephen Sondheim.
Through film, audio, musical examples, poetic characteristics, and episodes from his life, we will survey what made Cole Porter tick. Get prepared for a nostalgic, interesting, and exciting study of one of the world’s great songwriters.
Glenn Derringer began his musical career at the age of 9, appearing on the Jackie Gleason Show, Perry Como, and as a soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra. After graduation from Temple University, he held executive positions with Wurlitzer, Baldwin, Gibson Guitar, and taught music for more than 40 years.
Materials List
Required:
- Instructor-distributed materials
First Reading:
- No first reading assignment
Cost and Registration
Six sessions, $235 ($210 for Newberry members, seniors, and students). Learn about becoming a member.
To register multiple people for this class, please go through the course calendar in Learning Stream, our registration platform. When you select the course and register, you’ll be prompted to add another registrant.
RegisterSupport the Newberry
Your generosity is vital in keeping the library’s programs, exhibitions, and reading rooms free and accessible to everyone.
Make a Gift