Music of the Mississippi - Everett Smithson
Music of The Mississippi, is a Blues program featuring zydeco, tex mex, old country, soul and hillbilly hoedown---music styles associated with various communities along the Mississippi. Stories about the songs and instruments will be featured throughout in their performance. Audience participation will be encouraged with kids and all ages playing egg shakers, washboards and more. Following the performance free harmonica lessons will be given to students of all ages. The harmonica lessons consist of songs, diagrams, literature, along with free harmonicas. The harmonica lessons are sponsored by the Minnesota Blues Society.
54 participated
1.The audience will have an introduction to Mississippi Blues featuring the musical styles of zydeco, texmex, blues, old country, soul and hillbilly hoedowns.
2. We will hear stories behind the songs and instruments throughout the performance--giving us a deeper understand of Mississippi Blues and the cultures that embrace this style of music.
3. Following the performance, participants will be allowed to take free harmonica lessons, sponsored by Minnesota Blues Society, introducing them to a musical instrument often not played in our area.
4. Participants will see the library as a place that promotes musical programs that are fun and engaging for the entire family. Anecdotal responses will be collected.
1. Audience members were introduced to a wide variety of blues such as tex mex, old country, soul and hillbilly--music styles that are not common in our area.
2. Throughout the performance Everett shared with the audience stories and tidbits about the songs and the instruments the band played. Audience members were introduced to the harmonica, accordion, bass fiddle, rub board and other less well known instruments.
3. 27 children and young adults took the free harmonica lessons after the performance. Everett taught them different ways to blow in the harmonicas to produce different sounds. Each person left with a free harmonica and a handout on how to play the harmonica--it was great fun for the learners.
4. We had several families attend who have never attended a program at the library--this program allowed them to see what the library has to offer to their families and the community.
Ivanhoe Community Center, Lake Benton, Tyler, Minneota, Slayton, Windom, Rock County Libraries, Minnesota Blues Society