Musicologist Gil Harel will present the second of two lectures on the songs in the musical Hamilton on Thursday, April 1, starting at 7 p.m.

— an announcement from New Canaan Library

You can register here for this second online lecture of the two-part series sponsored by New Canaan Library. This event is scheduled to run from 7 to 8:15 p.m.

Lin Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton quickly became one of the most iconic works in the canon of 21st century musical theater. With a dominating showing at the 2016 Tony Awards (a record-setting 16 nominations and 11 wins), Hamilton has enchanted audiences with a score of breathtaking scope.

Inspired by Miranda’s reading of Ron Chernow’s biography, the musical tells the story of the “ten dollar founding father” using a combination of musical idioms ranging from rap and hip hop to jazz and traditional musical theater.

Act I of Hamilton is filled with excitement and action chronicling Alexander’s arrival in New York City and the events leading up to and including the Revolutionary War.

Thus, Lin Manuel Miranda had a tall task in constructing Act II: how to make the inchoate period of American government and politics as action-packed as what preceded it?

In conveying such a narrative, the structure of the act is innately set up for romance, drama, and fiery interactions between combustible elements – and here the composer’s imagination is on full display.

From the introduction of Thomas Jefferson to Eliza’s poignant farewell, Act II brims with compelling music and storytelling. Join Professor Gil Harel as he takes us inside the score to see how the second act of Hamilton leaves us feeling so very “satisfied.”

About the Speaker, Gil Harel

Gil Harel (PhD, Brandeis University) is a musicologist and music theorist whose interests include styles ranging from western classical repertoire to jazz.

Previously, he has served on the faculty at CUNY Baruch College, where he was awarded the prestigious “Presidential Excellence Award for Distinguished Teaching”, as well as the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics in Chengdu, China.

Currently, he teaches at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he was presented with the “Merit Award for Exemplary Service to the College.” At NVCC, Dr. Harel conducts the college chorale, a cappella ensemble, teaches music history and theory, and serves as musical director of theater productions. Outside of teaching, he enjoys staying active as a pianist and vocalist.