A night of history and historical music with two wonderful Somerville residents!

2017 marks the 100th anniversary of the U.S. entry into World War I. As the U.S. joined the conflict, breweries strove to stay in business even as the tide towards Prohibition grew and the supplies of needed grain began to diminish. Rising anti-German sentiment further reduced the demand for beer. Come join us at Aeronaut Brewing Company to learn more about and how these dynamics impacted businesses in Somerville and across the country with historian and Somerville resident Dan Breen of Brandeis University.

The talk will be followed by a special performance by celebrated jazz and bluegrass violinist Matt Glaser performing WWI and early Prohibition-era music. Glaser, a 20-year Somerville resident, served as head of the Berklee School of Music string department for more than 25 years and is founder and artistic director of the Berklee American Roots Music Program. Glaser's vast knowledge and experience in music has fueled collaborations with a wide range of artists, from cellist Yo-Yo Ma to filmmaker Ken Burns. Glaser will be joined by Joe "Sonny" Barbato, a pioneering voice in jazz accordion.

A special opportunity to enjoy the talents of two Somerville residents, this event is free! Many thanks to support form Mass Humanities. Beer will be available for purchase, as well as meat and/or veggie Venezuelan arepas from Somerville residents Las Carolinas. Las Carolinas is part of the Somerville Arts Council's Nibble Culinary Entrepreneurs project.

Talk begins at 6:30 pm

Music from 8 - 10 pm