Late summer and early fall of 2014 marks the centennial anniversary of the outbreak of World War I. This war had a dramatic effect on the psychological, political, and aesthetic landscape of Europe and North America. Although it is sometimes overshadowed in twentieth-century history by the second World War, the first World War inspired doubt, cynicism, and nostalgia that has resounded to the present day in musical works.

This exhibit takes a look at a few pieces with content that was directly inspired by the events of the war. There is work by Joan Littlewood, Kevin Puts, Alban Berg, John Foulds, and Igor Stravinsky.

Location: Orwig Music Library
Date: September 2014—January 9, 2015