From the music halls of the 1850s to the clubs, concert halls and basement bars of today, popular music has often played a large part in a Glasgow night out. This two hour talk, followed by a two hour walking tour of the Merchant City, will look at the changing face of popular entertainment in Glasgow over the last 150 or so years. Designed to be informal and informative, this class will examine how our tastes have evolved and look at the forces which have prompted the changes. Glasgow was the UK's first UNESCO City of Music which suggests that our entertainment scene is special and unique. If so, why? Preceded by a presentation at the City Halls in the morning (10.30-12.30) and followed by lunch (own arrangements), the walking tour will commence at 14.00 from City Halls and will finish outside Mono on King's Court at 16.00. Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.