What’s Going On? – 50 Years Ago and Today
Join Albert Martinez and Lewis Kostiner for an exploration of meaningful and socially significant songs from before 1975, alongside modern works that carry similar messages. Together, we’ll examine music that addressed the major issues of its time—Vietnam War protests, civil rights, women’s liberation, the environment, labor movements, and more.
Lewis will lead historical and cultural discussions of each song, including its origins, context, and lasting impact. Albert will guide the group in learning and performing the music, with charts provided for all instruments and voices. No prior musical experience is required—everyone is welcome to join the conversation and, if they wish, the music-making.
We’ll listen to recordings, analyze lyrics, and ask:
What did this song mean in its time?
Does its message still resonate today?
How might it speak to contemporary audiences?
Participants will also be invited to share songs from the past 50 years that address similar themes, and even create their own original works of relevance.
Our first offering will be a two-hour workshop focusing on two iconic songs:
What’s Going On (Marvin Gaye, 1971) – questioning social unrest
The Sound of Silence (Simon & Garfunkel, 1964) – exploring the breakdown of communication
Anonymous
James G. Hart Foundation
Geraldine Keefe
Negaunee Foundation
Rob and Karen Ospalik
Tomford and Grossman Family
