BOBBY HORTON, Songs and Stories of the Civil War will transport your audience back in time to the most turbulent era in our nation's history. Dressed as a 19th century performer, using period musical instruments, Bobby explores the stories of both the North and South through the music they loved. Each song is placed in context with historical background and portrays the struggles, hopes, and fears of Americans during this long and bloody conflict. These songs and stories tell of sweethearts and families left behind, fallen comrades, the hope of going home, and the pride, bravery, and patriotism of the volunteers who answered their country's call. This is not just a performance for Civil War buffs but for anyone who loves great music, inspired storytelling, and an evening of unforgettable entertainment. A seasoned performer, Bobby Horton is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer and music historian. For more than 30 years he has performed with the musical-comedy group Three on A String. He has also produced and performed music scores for eight Ken Burns PBS films, including "The Civil War" and "Baseball". His series of recordings of authentic period music has been acclaimed by historical organizations and publications throughout America and Europe.
SONGS FROM A CHRISTMAS GATHERING. The celebration of Christmas was prohibited in much of colonial New England. In fact, the state of Connecticut passed a law banning "the celebration of Christmas and the baking of mince meat pies." A few settlers, however, celebrated with small religious ceremonies. From these humble beginnings, Christmas grew so popular with the American people that in 1870 Congress declared it a Federal holiday. By the 1880's, holiday parties consisted of socializing, dining, party games, and the vital component of music. Dressed in period clothing and playing instruments of the time, Bobby Horton presents SONGS FROM A CHRISTMAS GATHERING, including minstrel tunes, Civil War songs, folk hymns, Stephen Foster's music and of course old-fashioned Christmas carols. Your audiences will be caught up in the joyful spirit of the season as they participate in an old fashioned Christmas carol sing-a-long.
