The Friends of the Library welcomes Dr. Orin Grossman to “FOL University” to lecture on the musical genius of Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess” on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 1:30 p.m. in the library’s Lapham Meeting Room.
Dr. Grossman’s presentation explores the story of Porgy and Bess and the fascinating history of its life on the stage. It will begin with the 1925 novel “Porgy” by DuBose Heywood, who became Gershwin’s collaborator, and discuss the many controversies that surrounded its original and subsequent productions. The program will conclude with a performance by Dr. Grossman of the opera’s songs including “Summertime” and “Bess, You is my Woman Now,” in a special piano arrangement by the renown American pianist Earl Wild.
“We are so pleased to have Dr. Grossman return to Port Washington. He is among the most popular lecturers and performers in FOL University’s history,” said Carol Hiller, a member of the Board of Directors of the Friends and co-chair of FOL U.
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Orin Grossman began piano and theory instruction at the Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at the age of five. After several graduate recitals there, he entered Harvard College from which he graduated Magna cum Laude in Music. He continued his studies at Yale University, earning a Ph.D. in Music. Dr. Grossman came to Fairfield University in 1975 as an Assistant Professor of Fine Arts. In 1991 he was named Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. After ten years as the Academic Vice President, he returned to the faculty in the fall of 2009 as Professor of Visual and Performing Arts.
Dr. Grossman has been particularly associated with the music of George Gershwin, lecturing and performing concerts of his classical pieces to critical praise around the world, including recent performances in Cairo, New York, Florence and St. Petersburg.
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FOL U is patterned after the popular “One-Day University” program. Well-known college professors are invited to speak on engaging and edifying topics. “FOL U, along with the dozens of other programs that the Friends of the Library sponsors each year, is supported by the generous donations of library patrons,” explained Ellen Zimmerman, an FOL Vice President and co-chair of FOL U. “We greatly appreciate contributions of any amount.” FOL donation envelopes are available throughout library and donations can also be made at www.pwpl.org/fol/support.
