For those about to rock...come to the Northbrook Public Library! In August, the Library will hold its first ever Rock Music Month. Rock Music Month events celebrate all sides of rock and roll, covering the history behind rock and roll legends, the future of rock, and the music itself.
Librarian Bill Pekara, one of the initiators of Rock Music Month, said the idea has been tossed around for years, and is finally coming to fruition.
“Rock Music Month is a different kind of program than we normally have at the Library, so it’s very exciting,” said Pekara.
“It’s a great opportunity to let people in our community experience new things and try something they usually wouldn’t,” added librarian Amanda Margis, a member of the Rock Music Month team.
Rock Music Month will officially commence on Monday, August 1 with a Musical Mayhem program for families in the morning, followed by a concert by the Dragstrip Vipers—known for their blend of SoCal and kustom culture—for adults in the evening. Other musicians being featured in August include Bailey Dee, Adam Fitz, and kindie rocker Istvan & His Imaginary Band.
“We’re going to have concerts for kids, adults, and all ages, with a mix of hard rock and soft rock,” Margis. “No two performances will be the same”
The Rock Music Month festivities don’t stop with live music. Each of the Library’s Wednesday films will feature a rock-related flick, including High Fidelity and Purple Rain. Music enthusiasts can hear insiders’ takes on the industry at various lectures, including a program with Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot from WBEZ Chiacgo’s Sound Opinions podcast on August 25 and a discussion with recording engineer and music journalist Steve Albini on August 4.
“These are going to be high profile lectures,” said Pekara. “The people coming in aren’t normally the people you’d see at the Library. It’s a great opportunity to see something different.”
Between a Rock Trivia Night, a rock and roll edition of TEDxNorthbrookLibrary, two music-themed book discussions, and a record sale, there are plenty of rock-related programs to enjoy. The Library encourages community members of all ages to explore everything being offered during Rock Music Month.
“Rock Music Month will have some surprising things to do and some surprises you’re going to have to come to see,” said Margis. “There really is going to be something for everyone.”
