Matthew Dodd, Performer
Songs & Stories of the Civil War
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Dressed in period soldier's clothing, Matthew Dodd takes listeners back in time to feel what it was like to be a soldier, civilian, loved-one-at-home or escaped slave in the Civil War Era. Through period songs, excerpts from actual letters, and anecdotes (humorous and poignant) Matthew evokes the feelings and passions of that pivotal era of American history. Matthew bypasses the stories of the generals and the battle movements and concentrates on the feelings and stories of the individual soldier (North and South) , the mother, father, or sweetheart left at home, and of the men and women who "followed the drinking gourd" to freedom.
Matthew sings and plays acoustic guitar, harmonica, banjo and mandolin.
Mike Plunkett, Performer
Paddy Has Gone for a Soldier
Songs and Stories of the Soldiers of the Irish Brigade.
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Through stories and songs Mike Plunkett brings to life the experience of the Irish immigrants who became American patriots. His music is lively and engaging with songs ranging from old Irish ballads to Civil War era songs of both the North and the South. Mike's stories, drawn from his research into the daily lives of Irish American soldiers, reveal the personal experiences of a typical soldier. The story of their fight for freedom in the New World is stirring and dramatic. They lived their faith and served their new country, joining "Erin's Harp and the Starry Flag" forever. The Irish faced many obstacles to acceptance in the New World and their contributions in the War made a significant contribution to their ultimate assimilation.
Mike sings and plays guitar, mandolin, and octave mandolin.