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Rock & Roll History

Charles Bergeron


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Rock History 1

Guitar Gods of Rock

Friday, November 7, 2025, 10am
Sharon and Timothy Ubben Signature Event Space
Charles Bergeron, Ph.D., Professor of Jazz History and Program Director for Jazz Pedagogy at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music

From windmills to finger tapping, playing behind their back or plucking strings with their teeth, rock’s guitar gods redefined what the instrument could do, blending technical mastery with raw emotion, pushing boundaries and inspiring generations. Learn more about some of your favorites like Clapton, Townshend, Page, Santana, Hendrix, with Charles Bergeron as he uncovers the similarities and differences among the greats.

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Rock History 2

Iconic Female Singer/Songwriters of Rock

Friday, January 23, 2026, 10am
John and Jeanne Rowe Performance and Learning Center
Charles Bergeron, Ph.D., Professor of Jazz History and Program Director for Jazz Pedagogy at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music

This engaging lecture with Charles Bergeron explores the iconic contributions of female artists in the evolution of rock music. In this session, we put the spotlight on women who both performed and composed the music and lyrics that shaped the genre. Through audio examples and historical context, the session will highlight figures like Janis Joplin, Joan Baez, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Roberta Flack, Carly Simon, and more.

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Rock History 3

Iconic Male Composers of Rock

Friday, March 6, 2026, 10am
Sharon and Timothy Ubben Signature Event Space
Charles Bergeron, Ph.D., Professor of Jazz History and Program Director for Jazz Pedagogy at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music

This lecture explores the groundbreaking contributions of iconic male composers who defined the sound and spirit of rock 'n' roll. From the raw lyrical energy of Chuck Berry, Elvis and the songwriting team of Lieber and Stoller to the poetic power of Bob Dylan’s lyrics, we’ll examine how these musical pioneers not only revolutionized popular music but also reflected and shaped the cultural movements of their time. Featuring key figures like Elton John, James Taylor and Billy Joel, this session will delve into their creative processes, signature works and lasting legacies.

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Rock History 4

The British Invasion: The Second Wave

Friday, March 27, 2026, 10am
Sharon and Timothy Ubben Signature Event Space
Charles Bergeron, Ph.D., Professor of Jazz History and Program Director for Jazz Pedagogy at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music

This lecture explores the "Second Wave" of the British Invasion, focusing on the late 1960s through the early 1980s, when a new generation of U.K. artists helped to reshape the American and global music landscape. Building on the cultural groundwork laid by the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, the Yardbirds and others, the Second Wave introduced a diverse array of amazing musical groups. We will focus on the music of Pink Floyd, Queen, Eurythmics and The Police, and artists such as Elvis Costello and Annie Lennox. From classic styles to new wave and punk, the Second Wave highlights the diversity of rock music’s evolution. 

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