Class Schedule: December 3, 10, 17, 2026 | 7:30 – 9:00 PM

Through multimedia presentations and discussions, the class explores the major artists of the era, such as Taylor, Cat Stevens, Billy Joel, Jim Croce, Paul Simon, and Gordon Lightfoot.  Another topic will study the growth of female artists, with singer/songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon, Carole King, and Janis Ian achieving even greater success—and creative control—for women in music.  While the genre may have peaked in the 1970s, it continued to influence popular music in the 1980s and beyond; the veterans still produced fascinating songs, and artists such as Elvis Costello, Bruce Springsteen, Dan Fogelberg, and Tracy Chapman updated the format for younger generations.  Part two traces the peak of the movement and its lingering influence.

Join music historians Ken Womack & Kit O'Toole as they revisit classic record albums. With Classic for a Reason, Ken & Kit will take listeners on a guided tour of our history's most enduring popular musical accomplishments.

Class Schedule: February 11, 18, 25, 2027 | 7:30 – 9:00 PM

Part one explores the beginnings of music videos, from Fats Waller’s 1940s “soundies” to the Beatles’ promotional films to the Monkees TV series.  By the 1970s, countries such as Australia and England aired TV shows featuring promotional film clips, with Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” illustrating the genre’s early creativity. Michael Nesmith saw the potential of these programs in the US, helping to create what became MTV.

Join music historians Ken Womack & Kit O'Toole as they revisit classic record albums. With Classic for a Reason, Ken & Kit will take listeners on a guided tour of our history's most enduring popular musical accomplishments.

Join music historians Ken Womack & Kit O'Toole as they revisit classic record albums. With Classic for a Reason, Ken & Kit will take listeners on a guided tour of our history's most enduring popular musical accomplishments.