At festivals our first show on Sunday morning is usually a program of old-time songs of inspiration. Over the years we have kept track of those which have been most requested by our audiences. This recording has many of these selections along with a few of our favorites.
These songs have come to us in many ways. Some have been standards at music festivals and old-time jams for years. Some we learned in the process of researching 19th and early 20th century history, musical and otherwise. Adam and Eve's Wedding Song we learned because it was sung this way, according to Herndon's "Life of Lincoln", by Lincoln at his sister's wedding. (We did find three distinctly different versions in different editions of Sacred Harp songsters from later in the 19th century.)
We heard Hallelujah to the Lamb on the Brandy Snifters' fabulous recording. Andy Cohen sang What Are They Doing in Heaven Today? and directed us to Washington Phillips' beautiful interpretation. We were inspired by Brush Arbor style singing for our setting of Down by the River/Old Time Way. Simple Gifts was one of the first songs we learned on our courtship dulcimer. And Jim apparently was channeling Phil Harris on Preacher and the Bear.
The Musicians
Suzanne Jaroszynski- Flute, rhythm guitar, vocals
Jim Hale- 5-string banjo, rhythm and lead guitar, vocals
Taylor Hale- Lead guitar on Amazing Grace
Want more info about about Suzanne and Jim?...Go to - www.suzanneandjim.com
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