A New Art With Us

“Music is a new Art with us,” wrote Benjamin Franklin to a friend in Scotland in 1763, explaining that the American colonies were still young and had not yet produced a distinctive body of music. Franklin’s statement was especially true of his adopted hometown, Philadelphia. Founded by Quakers, who eschewed all forms of music, Philadelphia was slow to develop a public musical life. By the time of the American Revolution, however, the city had a lively music scene and was the center of arts and culture in America. Of particular interest will be discussion of two important musical events at Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church soon after its completion in 1700.

Admission is $10 for adults. It includes a drink ticket for a beverage (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Advance registration is highly recommended.

Meet-and-Mingle afterward at Riverside Hall

This lecture will take place inside the church sanctuary, followed by a reception in nearby Riverside Hall. For a modest donation, you can treat yourself to delicious gourmet desserts there … and pair them with wine, coffee or tea while you chat with the speaker. 

About the Speaker

Jack McCarthy is a longtime Philadelphia archivist and historian who has held leadership positions at several area historical institutions and directed a number of major archives and public history projects. Jack specializes in Philadelphia music history and Northeast Philadelphia history. He regularly writes, lectures, gives tours, and manages projects on these subjects. Jack has served as consulting archivist and historian for the Philadelphia Orchestra, Mann Center for the Performing Arts, and Philadelphia Jazz Legacy Project. His book, A Century of Music Under the Stars: A History of the Mann Center for the Performing Arts and Robin Hood Dell, will be published by Temple University Press in fall 2025.