102Z Summer 2026 Meeting the Bible Musically

This class brings scripture to life through the world’s greatest music—sometimes reverent, sometimes surprising, always memorable. In these sessions, we’ll encounter biblical heroes; villains; love stories; and laments through Handel and Bach, Verdi and Mendelssohn; Broadway hits by Andrew Lloyd Webber; spirituals, gospel; and iconic popular music. Johnny Cash, Three Dog Night, Leonard Bernstein, Louis Armstrong, Pete Seeger, Mahalia Jackson and many others will be included. With vivid storytelling, short musical performances, and lively discussion, this course reveals how the Bible has inspired unforgettable sounds across centuries and styles. No musical background needed, just open ears and curiosity. 

Stephen Ruth is professor emeritus of Public Policy from the Schar School at George Mason University. He is a frequent lecturer on Bible topics. His, book One Year Trip through the Bible: A Layman’s Fresh View of the Complete Old and New Testaments, is available on Amazon.