Unwrapping Irving Berlin’s "White Christmas"

This festive lecture explores the unusual roots of the song ‘White Christmas’ and its role in establishing the concept of the commercial Christmas song. It will explain how the song’s release during the summer months hints at how its potential as an enduring seasonal classic was not anticipated, and then examine how the music and lyrics helped it to resonate in a time of war. The lecture will also consider Berlin’s patriotism and his active role in the Second World War. 

‘White Christmas’ and other examples will be performed live by Olivier Award winner Julian Ovenden (appearance subject to availability).

A lecture by  Professor Dominic Broomfield-McHugh

This event is also available to watch live online. To register, visit:  gres.hm/white-christmas

Gresham College has offered free public lectures for over 400 years, thanks to the generosity of our supporters. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn from some of the greatest minds. To support Gresham's mission, please consider making a donation: https://www.gresham.ac.uk/support/ 

Host or Publisher Gresham College