Anyone who ever wished someone could "Tell Me Why" the Beatles not only were the voice of their generation, but were able to build a legacy of musical influence that endures to this day need only look to their Liverpool childhood for the answers, says a University of Iowa music historian.
Donna Parsons, a lecturer in the UI School of Music in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the Honors Program, invites a Des Moines audience down "The Long and Winding Road" of the formative years for young John, Paul, George, and Ringo, with “Magical Mythical Tour: In Search of the Beatles,” on Tuesday, Aug. 12, from noon to 1 p.m.
The event continues the UI’s popular Hawkeye Lunch and Learn series, which has been drawing capacity crowds monthly to the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center, 1200 Grand Ave. Guests are invited to bring their lunches—desserts and drinks will be provided. The event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. RSVP online (don’t wait, or you might find the seats filled "Yesterday"!).
Throughout the Beatles’ metamorphosis, they kept their pulse synchronized with the psyche of their generation while never tuning out their musical peers. Fans, fellow musicians, and even their critics were captivated by the formidable energy that cascaded throughout singles and albums, and held spellbound as they listened to an ever-maturing dialogue on love, hope, vulnerability, and peace.
Parsons has spent the last 10 summers tracing the source of the Beatles' humor, inspiration, and drive to become the defining band of more than one generation.
“The foundation for their sensitivity and creativity can be found in their childhood experiences in Liverpool,” she says. “The road to stardom really does start with their childhood neighborhoods, schools, and small coffee bars, before moving to the church halls, town halls, and auditoriums.”
The Hawkeye Lunch and Learn series offers monthly events in Des Moines and Iowa City designed to connect Iowa communities, university faculty, and government and industry leaders. The Provost’s Office of Outreach and Engagement sponsors the series. Upcoming events in Des Moines include:
- Sept. 23: "The Internet: Past, Present, and Future," Dan Reed, UI vice president for research and economic development
- Oct. 28: John Culshaw, university librarian
- Nov. 20: Sally Mason, UI president
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact the Office of the Provost in advance at 319-335-3565.