Four Seasons, Four Years The Civil War, A Musical Journey

Lead Presenter: Old Songs, Inc.

“FOUR SEASONS, FOUR YEARS”, The Civil War: A Musical Journey
Four Seasons, Four Years is a new and exclusive production featuring eleven New York singers and musicians performing a selection of songs extant in America between 1820 and 1865. These will include both popular songs of the period as well as songs composed in response to the Civil War itself and events leading up to it. The songs are interspersed with historical narrative specific to New York State and the New York Volunteer Regiments.
The cast of singers and musicians include Greg Artzner, Dan Berggren, Stephen Fry, Betsy Fry, Reggie Harris, Terry Leonino, John Roberts, Bill Spence, Toby Stover, Susan Trump and George Wilson. All known in their own right as fine working musicians, they have joined forces to present this unique show in observance of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War.
The songs of this period include Negro spirituals, shape-note hymns, marching songs, sentimental songs and songs and parodies written by 19th century writers such as Stephen Foster, George F. Root, the Hutchinson Family and Henry C. Work. The cast performs in individual and ensemble performances bringing these songs alive with great gusto, emotional impact and exceptional musicianship.
The production has been produced, written and directed by Andy Spence in collaboration with the musicians. The program is available in November of 2012.

"We thoroughly enjoyed the Civil War program. The singing was stirring- alternately full of pathos and resilience of the human spirit. It was a memorable performance, one I won't soon forget. We see a great deal of theater and music - usually classical. The Civil War program ranks among the finest we've ever seen." J. Rifkin

Website: www.oldsongs.org