You may have heard of Weird Al and song parodies like “Eat It,” but did you know that song parodies have been around for centuries?

Song parodies became popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries as methods of protest, political campaigning, and entertainment. Like changing the lyrics of “The Star Spangled Banner” to protest slavery, or altering the words to the “Canadian Boat-Song” to celebrate the majesty of Michigan’s Pictured Rocks lakeshore.

Student researcher Aiden Armstrong has dug into archives and collections across campus to find sheet music, songbooks, and newspaper clippings featuring parody songs, which he and vocalists from Martha Cook will perform. A student-led exhibit of historical material about student life at Martha Cook Building and a display of early sheet music will also be featured at this event.

Space is limited, so please register in advance to secure your spot.