Songs of America's Women   

Musician and vocalist Layla Ananda shares the stories (“herstories”) of America’s women as told through their songs. Women of all countries and cultures have always used music to express the joys and sorrows of their lives. The indigenous women of this land, along with women who came from Europe, Africa, and Asia, have relied on music to energize, soothe, celebrate, and mourn. The songs women have sung over decades and centuries have much to tell us about how our foremothers thought and felt. Sad songs and violent songs have been outlets for powerlessness and hard work, while songs of strength and daring show that women did not always accept their lot quietly, or at all. Some songs have remained intact over many generations, while others have been rewritten or newly created to fit new lives and times. In this class Layla will share songs of many styles, as well as the stories behind the songs. We will enjoy both Layla’s live performance and our own opportunity to sing along.