A Stroll Through American Roots Music
Since the first mixing of European, African and Native American cultures, American roots music has evolved through various genres to become folk, ragtime, hokum, blues and jazz.
During the presentation, A Stroll Through American Roots Music, the band Blues in the Rain will take listeners down the road from pre-1900 traditional songs to the music of the 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s.
Through stories, anecdotes, and lively musical performance (including sing alongs!), the audience will gain a better understanding of the history of these genres and a new appreciation for the artists, from the famous to the obscure, who helped to create them.
THE SPEAKERS / PERFORMERS:
Blues in the Rain has been entertaining audiences at festivals, restaurants and retirement communities in the Washington D.C. area, the mountains of West Virginia, and even in Milan, Italy.
On keyboard and vocals: A sought after lecturer on the topics of U.S. history and historical research, Elisa Carbone’s award winning historical novels have sold over 1.5 million copies and are used in classrooms nationwide and have been translated into five languages. A classically trained pianist and former piano teacher, she has now thrown away the sheet music in favor of the lively accompaniment and solo styles of American roots music.
On guitar and vocals: While studying at Berklee College of Music, Liam O’Connor began playing punk rock and reggae bass on the Boston club scene. After moving to the mid-Atlantic region, he became fascinated by and learned to play in the rural, finger-picking Piedmont Blues style. He now teaches Piedmont-style guitar and has given presentations on the evolution of the guitar in America. A seasoned performer on guitar and vocals, he brings a wide repertoire of blues and Americana songs to his shows.
On harmonica: Jim Casbarian grew up in Annapolis, MD. He loved the acoustic blues music that came out of the Virginia countryside. Whether his harmonica is chugging a lively blues beat, or wailing like a freight train whistle, Jim’s harp playing adds energy and flair to every performance.
THE PRESENTATION:
Designed for: Auditorium programs in schools (grades 5 and up) or retirement communities. For festivals, cultural programs, or any event where a lively educational performance would be a vibrant addition.
Audience size: Unlimited. We can use the venues PA system or provide our own for an additioanl charge.
Session length: Generally one hour (including a short Q & A at the end) but can be tailored to your program needs.
Cost: Please inquire for further details or to find out how a presentation can be tailored for a specific event.
For events outside the greater Washington D.C./Baltimore area and those requiring an overnight stay, please add all travel costs for the three band members.
For bookings: contact Presenting Authors
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PROGRAMS & FEES:
Presentations for Conferences:
Lectures for groups of adults and/or students in grades 4 and up on the research and writing process, using slides, film clips, stories, and artifacts.
Group size: unlimited. A microphone/PA system and LCD projector must be provided.
Session length: One hour, includes Q & A.
Fees: $3,000 for one to three presentations per day.
For events far enough outside the Washington D.C./Baltimore area that require overnight stay, please add all travel costs.
Please inquire for further details or to find out how a presentation can be tailored for a specific event.
