Miners, Cowboys and Washerwomen: The Worksongs of Arizona with Jay Craváth

In a narrative and musical portrait of working-class music, Dr. Craváth explores its roots and rhythms in our state. From Hopi basket songs, the Yavapai acorn gathering songs, to the cotton fields of Chandler and the crooked streets of Jerome, songs were companions to the immigrants who explored and built our state. Through performance and discussion, these tales, which reveal so much of the nature and character of a people, are explored.

This program is cohosted by Chandler Public Library – Downtown Branch. This is an in-person event.

Jay Craváth is a composer, writer and scholar in the field of music, humanities and Indigenous studies. Dr. Craváth has been on the Arizona Humanities Speakers Bureau since 1992. With a Ph.D. in humanities education, he enjoys crafting programs from these interests into discussions that include stories, musical performance and media. Dr. Craváth’s goal is to create engaging learning experiences—“scholarship with a zing!” His latest album of original music is entitled “Songs for Ancient Days.” You can hear his band, Dr J and the Botanicals, on his website www.jaycravath.com and around Arizona. His website also holds original documentaries, poetry, essays, and a novel, being serialized: The Wisdom of Blood.