Athenaeum Hosts NPR’s Michael Lasser on July 10

“Birds do it. Bees do it. Even educated fleas do it. Let’s do it, let's fall in love.”

—Cole Porter

Some of the cleverest, funniest and most romantic songs ever written came from the pen of Cole Porter—from “Night and Day” and “I Get A Kick Out of You,” to “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.”

The Athenaeum at Rochester Institute of Technology invites the public to a free lecture on one of America’s most-revered songwriters, Cole Porter. Michael Lasser will discuss “From Stage to Screen and Back Again with Cole Porter,” from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, July 10.

Lasser is the host of National Public Radio’s “Fascinatin’ Rhythm,” a weekly program that reviews the history and romance of great American popular songs. His show has been on the air since 1980, and received the Peabody Award in 1995.

During the Athenaeum presentation, Lasser will also review his new book, “America’s Songs,” which he co-authored with Philip Furia. A limited supply of signed copies will be available for purchase.

RIT’s academy for learning over 50 is located at 150 Research Blvd., just east of the RIT campus, off John Street and High Power Drive in Henrietta. The building is handicapped accessible and free parking is available.

Admission to Lasser’s discussion is free to the public as well as Athenaeum members. Call (585) 292-8989 to reserve a seat.