Beyond the Notes features leading scholars whose presentations highlight the times and culture surrounding the works performed by the San Luis Obispo Master Chorale. The San Luis Obispo Master Chorale will host two free educational presentations given by Dr. Carl Schmidt, Professor Emeritus of Music History and Culture at Towson State University, Maryland, as part of its Beyond the Notes series. These presentations coincide with the SLO Master Chorale’s performance on Sunday, November 20 at 3pm at the San Luis Obispo Performing Arts Center. Titled “The French Connection,” the concert includes Gabriel Fauré’s beautiful and contemplative Requiem and Francis Poulenc’s energetic and joyful Gloria. Beyond the Notes is sponsored by Libbie Agran and the Shanbrom Family Foundation. Saturday, November 19, 2022, at 7:00 pm “La Belle Époque: The Arts in Paris During Fauré’s Lifetime” will enlighten attendees about life, people, and the arts in Paris at the turn of the 20th century. Location: San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, 1010 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo Sunday, November 20, 2022, at 1:15 pm “Poulenc and Paris: An Embarrassment of Artistic Riches” will discuss the life, times, and friends of Francis Poulenc. Location: Pavilion, Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo