How Can I Keep From Singing: The Work of Pete Seeger, presented by the Woody Guthrie Center® and the GRAMMY Museum®, features original documents and artifacts from Seeger’s life and work, which show his influence as a musician, social activist, environmentalist, promoter of peace, and community builder.
“We are thrilled to bring Pete’s message of peace, justice, and equality to Woody’s home in Tulsa,” said Woody Guthrie Center Executive Director Deana McCloud. “Their common message is one that remains relevant as we continue their work for positive social change in the world.”
Among the artifacts featured in the co-curated exhibit:
- Original lyrics
- Items from Seeger’s work with the Almanac Singers, The Weavers, and People’s Songs
- His writings about Woody Guthrie
- Documents connected to the blacklisting era of the House Un-American Activities Committee
- Tools and clothing from Seeger’s cabin
- Examples of his environmental work
- Interactive experiences such as a sing-along area with some of the songs Seeger famously recorded as well as an interactive banjo lesson.
Pete Seeger, who received the inaugural Woody Guthrie Prize in 2014, used music to build community and unite people, regardless of nationality, language, or socio-economic background, and invited everyone to sing along.