The Stories Behind The Songs with Rob Lutes

In October, Arbor Gallery and Groupe Harden will present a new series of
concerts/workshops that is sure to please music lovers.
Rob Lutes, an accomplished musician, song writer and fingerstyle guitarist
has given song writing, creativity and music history workshops to students,
community groups and seniors for more than 20 years. He offers a range of
different sessions that inspire creativity and excite interest in the fascinating
history of popular music. This time, Lutes returns to the gallery with a highly
interesting and interactive workshops/concerts series – “The Stories behind the Songs”.

The stories behind the songs

The primary goals of this series are to entertain, inspire, break isolation, and bring enjoyment to seniors
and younger patrons alike through sharing musical memories and learning some of the fascinating
stories behind the songs they know and love. Consisting of 6 sessions, this program will lead participants
on a chronological tour of popular music, from its earliest iterations in America in the 18th century,
through the early folk, spiritual and civic music of the 19th century and into 20th century and the
flowering of genres like blues, ragtime and jazz, the emergence of Tin Pan Alley and the birth of Rock
and Roll, among other major musical movements.
The series comprises 6 sessions (once a week). Each 50-minute session features the stories behind the
creation and recording of a series of well-known songs, and interpretations of each one, followed by
feedback or questions from participants. The program is conversational and highly engaging. Rob
encourages participants to respond, share memories and knowledge and in certain cases to sing or clap
along.

“Rob’s series has been such a gift for our patrons, who are starved for music and
entertainment. Although several members of our group are quite knowledgeable
about music and its history, every session brings new and interesting facts,
delivered with Rob’s expert storytelling and performing skills. This activity has
helped us maintain our connection and sense of community. Interestingly, not one
member of the group has dropped out since enrolling a couple of months ago!”
Isabelle Delage, Host, The Side Door Coffee House, The Tilted Steeple Coffee
House.

Sponsored by Groupe Harden
The Stories behind the Songs Workshops series is made possible thanks to a sponsorship by Groupe Harden. Every
Tuesday from October 3rd to November 14th, except for Halloween evening, for a total of six evenings.
Costs: $50 for the entire series, $40 for Seniors (60+), or $10 drop-ins per evening. Reservations can be
made at [email protected]