By Gage Vieno, Special to the Reporter
A monthly series that blends music, history, and conversations about social justice will celebrate its first anniversary next Tuesday (July 21) when “Which Side? A Protest Music Teach-Out” moves to the new Opera + Community Studios in Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood.
Sponsored by the ACLU of Massachusetts, the 90-minute event will feature live performances, storytelling, and audience participation as musicians perform historic protest songs alongside original works inspired by today’s social and political climate.
Among those helping to lead the event is Dorchester’s Joyce Linehan, who produced the series alongside author James Sullivan and Jon Lupfer. Dorchester musician Elisa Birdseye will perform as part of the evening’s lineup.
Inspired by Sullivan’s book “Which Side Are You On? 20th Century American History in 100 Protest Songs,” each program pairs performances of historic protest songs with original works that explore contemporary issues.
“A year into this project, people are coming out not just for the songs, but for the feeling in the room, the sense that music and art can still help us understand each other, build solidarity, and create moments of joy and resilience together,” said Linehan (above).
The evening will feature the house band, The Paid Protesters, backing a diverse lineup of performers that includes Melissa Ferrick, Brandie Blaze, Todd Thibaud, The Rubin Brothers, The OG’s, and Birdseye.
A classically trained violist, Birdseye also performs Americana and pop music with several Boston-area bands. Her songwriting draws inspiration from artists including Joan Baez, The Weavers, The Beatles, and the protest movements of the 1960s and 1970s.
“Protest songs have always helped people make sense of turbulent times,” said Sullivan. “Over the past year we’ve been proud to help friends both old and new make some sense of this crazy world we’re living in.”
The event begins at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m., at Opera + Community Studios, 15 Channel Center St.
Admission is pay-what-you-want with a $5 minimum, and organizers recommend making advance reservations. All ages are welcome to attend. Go to whichside.boston/ for tickets.
