Library offers Cole Porter program

WEST MILFORD — Cole Porter: Sophisticated Songster will be presented on the back lawn at the West Milford Township Library on Monday, July 17, at 7 p.m. Porter’s music has been described as elegant, sophisticated, witty and sometimes complex. Dr. Donato Fornuto, Professor Emeritus of Music at William Paterson University, will discuss those characteristics that distinguish the music of Porter from the other songwriters of his time. In addition to biographical information and anecdotes Fornuto, a professional pianist, will perform medleys of Porter’s music. Name that tune quizzes, sing-a-longs, and recorded musical examples round out a talk that is both informative and entertaining. Fornuto attended the High School of Music and Art, the City University, and completed his doctorate at Teachers College, Columbia University. He taught at Teachers College, and in the public schools of New York City and Midland Park. While at William Paterson he taught jazz harmony, jazz arranging and jazz ear training, in addition to classical harmony and counterpoint. This program is offered through the Horizons Speakers Bureau of the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Bring a chair and a friend. In case of rain the program will be held in town hall.