Jewish composers and lyricists played a defining role in shaping American popular music. From the shtetl to the Lower East Side to Broadway, their journey from immigrant roots and Yiddish theater to the American mainstream helped create what we now know as the Great American Songbook.

Presented by Chuck Mishaan, this program explores the stories, influences, and cultural context behind iconic songs and composers, and how music became a vehicle for creativity, belonging, and cultural connection.

This program launches the 2026 L’Chaim! Jewish Music & Culture Series. Stay tuned for additional collaborations with the Jewish Federation of Dutchess County and the Poughkeepsie Public Library District throughout the year.