The Western Illinois Museum presents Animal Songs, an evening of music and conversation that invites a deeper consideration of animals and those who advocate for their humane treatment. Performed by the uniquely talented vocalist Liz Pearse, and presented in partnership with the Humane Society of McDonough County, the program takes place on Friday, February 6, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM.
Animal Songs, created by Pearse, features whimsical and poignant musical portraits of creatures ranging from wombats and goldfish to dolphins, manatees, capybaras, and even a Tibetan goat. The music explores our complex relationship with the animal kingdom through the intimacy of song, drawing on both historical works and compositions by living composers. The program includes selections from Francis Poulenc’s early 20th-century song cycle Le bestiaire, as well as contemporary works such as Three Wombat Songs, inspired by the Victorian-era practice of keeping exotic animals as pets, and The Diver, a lyrical tribute to the often-maligned pigeon. As Pearse notes, “The medium of song has a way of disarming an audience, allowing for deeper consideration of a subject… I want to explore why animals are denied the autonomy we afford ourselves, and ask whether that is just.”
Following the performance, visitors are invited to join a community conversation with Pearse, Humane Society President Bonnie Smith-Skripps, and Western Illinois Museum Executive Director Sue Scott. The discussion will explore the artistic inspiration behind the concert and its connection to local animal welfare efforts. It will highlight people in our region who have championed humane treatment, including 19th-century social activist Rose Jolly and 1980s Humane Society founder Alice Henry.
There will also be opportunities to socialize over refreshments and learn more about the Humane Society’s current work. As part of the program, the Museum will record an oral history with community members dedicated to the Humane Society of McDonough County as part of the Museum’s ongoing effort to preserve local stories, voices, and achievements within the region’s historical narrative.
The bar opens at 5:00 PM. A suggested $5 donation at the door helps support the Museum’s community programming.
Located at 201 S. Lafayette Street, one block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square, the Western Illinois Museum is a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating the history, culture, and traditions of McDonough County. The building is fully accessible, with free parking available.
For a full schedule of events, visit wimuseum.org or follow us on social media @wimuseum. Questions? Call 309-837-2750, text 309-837-2613, or email info@wimuseum. org.
