Men, Women and Music of the World Wars in celebration!

Some of the most enduring music of the 20th century was the music that came out of the horrors of the First and Second World Wars.  These were songs that lifted weary hearts and gave hope to those who served on overseas battlefields and those who remained behind to carry on.  These were the songs that were sung, were marched to and somehow inspired us to smile when it seemed there wasn’t anything to smile about.  And these same songs still bring smiles to our faces today.

In celebration of the music of the World Wars and the men and women whose courage we honor,  musician and teacher Arne Sahlen is presenting,  from the estate of Wendy Weir Panattoni,  a rich trove from both World Wars of songs well-known and forgotten, many purchased new by her former teacher.  Remember Tipperary?  Over There? Lili Marlene, Johnny Canada and The White Cliffs of Dover?  Take a trip back in time with these and other songs made popular during the war years and the people who created and performed them.

Edith Cavell

Remember the British Nurse, Edith Cavell who is celebrated for her great acts of courage in saving the lives of soldiers from both sides without discrimination?  She helped hundreds of allied solders escape from German-occupied territory during World War I, for which she was arrested, charged with treason, found guilty and put to death by a German firing squad.

Gitz Rice

Another great figure of both the World Wars was Gitz Rice, a Nova Scotia-born soldier who created many World War I songs that were popular among the troops and civilians alike. Songs like:
“Dear Old Pal of Mine”
“Keep Your Head Down, Fritzie Boy”
“Mademoiselle from Armentières”
“On the Road That Leads to Home”

Gitz created a committee which developed concerts to entertain soldiers. After returning to Canada he became Lieutenant of musical entertainment. His committee entertained about 70,000 troops per week.

Hollywood stars who served

Whether serving on the battlefield or in USO canteens at home, selling war bonds or entertaining the troops overseas, many well-known movie stars did their part to help the war effort and we remember eagerly following them in the news. They were stars like Jimmy Stewart, Bob Hope, Clark Gable, Danny Kaye, Dale Evans, Rita Hayworth, Marlene Dietrich and many others – all of whom deserve to be remembered all these many years later.

Join us in celebration of the Men, Women and Music of the World Wars.

The event will be held in the small chapel at Christ Church Trinity and admission is by donation.

Space limited.  Please confirm your attendance. Text/cell Arne at 250-540-4242 or email to arnesahlen@hotmail.com.

Note:  In the meantime, enjoy the two well-known war songs in the  selected video above.