For more information or for group licensing rates, contact Rob at rob@roblutes.com
The Stories behind the Songs - Tin Pan Alley History - Winter 2027 SCHEDULE:
Thursday, January 7 - 6:30 PM - 8 PM ET
Thursday, January 14 - 6:30 PM - 8 PM ET
Thursday, January 21 - 6:30 PM - 8 PM ET
Thursday, January 28 - 6:30 PM - 8 PM ET
Thursday, February 4 - 6:30 PM - 8 PM ET
Thursday, February 11 - 6:30 PM - 8 PM ET
*THE ZOOM LINK WILL BE THE SAME FOR ALL OF THE SESSIONS BUT WILL ALSO BE EMAILED TO PARTICIPANTS THE DAY OF THE PROGRAM.
THE STORIES BEHIND THE SONGS
A History of American (and Canadian) Popular Music
Read an October 2025 interview about Rob and his work in music and music history in The Buzz, Kingston, Ontario.
https://kingstonlive.ca/article/5837/view
In The Stories behind the Songs, Rob Lutes brings participants on a curated, guided tour of the history of American (and Canadian) popular music, from its earliest iterations in ballads, patriotic, and religious songs of late 18th and early 19th century, through the evolving musical world of dance music, and parlour and minstrel songs in mid-19th century, to the flowering of genres like blues, ragtime, jazz, and country, among other musical movements at the dawn on the 20th.
Each thematic 1.5-hour session features the story of the evolution of American music with the stories behind a series of well-known songs from musical history along with performances or early recordings and images related to each one. The program is highly engaging and educational, and brings back memories as we re-experience songs we know from the past.
Testimonials
“Rob is not just a songwriting instructor, he is a student of all things songwriting and an organized, inspiring mentor to those musicians looking to find their own voice. Rob's deep roots in traditional music - early jazz, folk, and popular - allow him to present examples across a range of genres and chord structures that appeal to a wide range of musicians and their varied tastes. Both times that we have had Rob teach courses, he has been clear, organized, and supportive with rave reviews from our students, many of whom have studied with some of the best songwriters in Canada.”
Thom Lambert, Haliburton Folk Society
“We were thrilled to present a convivial evening with award-winning singer-songwriter Rob Lutes at the Morrin Centre in Old Quebec City. His distinctive guitar playing and warm vocals, combined with his gift for storytelling, offered an unforgettable experience where the performance of each song was paired with its own fascinating origin story. The repertoire spanned over a period of a couple of centuries and included popular American songs as well as some melodies from the Quebec province. Rob forms an intimate connection with his audience that is truly special. His performances are more than just concerts!”
Jeanne Lebossé-Gautron, Director of Programming and Communications, Morrin Centre
"We have so enjoyed having Rob entertain, educate and help us revisit those great classic songs that are part of the playbook of our lives, these past two months! Recommended!"
Diane Kyte, Project Officer, English Community Organization of Lanaudiere
“We had the pleasure of presenting “The Stories behind the Songs” series with Rob Lutes. Throughout the series, Rob captivated the audience, both as a musician and as a storyteller. He is knowledgeable, interesting, and connects with the audience who jump in in spontaneous sing along. The joy was palpable and the feedback incredible. This turned out to be one of the most successful series in our history, so much so that we decided to present an encore evening “The Stories behind the Christmas Carols”. The entire audience of the series signed up, and the evening was sold out. We will definitely invite him again and highly recommend him.”
Sylvie Bouchard, Chair of the Board, Arbor Gallery, Vankleek Hill
"Rob’s Stories Behind the Songs workshops have quickly become one of the most beloved activities in our seniors residence. His engaging approach, rich musical knowledge, and warm rapport with residents create an uplifting and highly interactive experience every time. We consistently hear how meaningful and enjoyable these sessions are and we highly recommend "The Stories Behind the Songs" for any group seeking an enriching, interactive musical experience."
Alexandra Ushinsky, Community Services, Villa Beaurepaire, Beaconsfield, QC
"I host a couple of coffee houses as well as a house concert series. Needless to say, we have been completely shut down since the beginning of the pandemic. Rob’s series has been such a gift for our patrons, who are starved for music and entertainment. Although several members of our group are quite knowledgeable about music and its history, every session brings new and interesting facts, delivered with Rob’s expert storytelling and performing skills. This activity has helped us maintain our connection and sense of community. Interestingly, not one member of the group has dropped out since enrolling a couple of months ago!"
Isabelle Delage, Host, The Side Door Coffee House
The Tilted Steeple Coffee House
Front Door House Concerts
Media:
Music Rocks the Arbor Gallery
https://thereview.ca/2023/10/11/music-rocks-the-arbor-gallery/
The Stories Behind the Songs: Westmount Mag
https://www.westmountmag.ca/the-stories-behind-the-songs-overview-from-may-and-june/
