World War I was a difficult time for much of the United States, as citizens grappled with global war, repressive wartime legislation, and the Spanish flu pandemic. However, the exportation of American jazz music by several African American regiments stationed in France was one of the major cultural developments of the 20th century.
Several prominent historians consider the genre one of America’s greatest gifts to the world. An upcoming lecture at the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County lecture will examine the context of jazz in the United States at the time, as well as the experiences of these early musicians in both the United States and Europe.
Jazz Lecture at HCSCC
The Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County will host local musician and educator Bill Law for a history exploring the intersection of World War I and American jazz music. The lecture will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 5, at the Hjemkomst Center.
Law has played an influential role in Fargo-Moorhead’s music scene, from his garage band days in the 1960s and ‘70s through his recent roles as a music educator, the NDSU Performing Arts Development Director, and the producer of the popular Prairie Public radio show, The Law of Jazz.
Visitors are encouraged to explore HCSCC’s local exhibition, War, Flu, & Fear: World War I and Clay County, before or after the lecture.
If You Go
What: A Jazz History of WWI
When: Tuesday, February 5, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave N, Moorhead, MN 56560
Price: General admission for the lecture is $10. HCSCC Members will receive free admission.
RSVP: Seats may be reserved online [RSVP Here]
