Ballad
of America
This is the story
of the United States of America vividly told through a wealth of traditional
folk songs. The early settlers in the New World played and sang a variety
of songs from their native homelands as they worked, prayed, and enjoyed
leisure activities. By the time of the American Revolution, they were
adapting these songs and creating new ones that reflected their ever-changing
circumstances and environment.
Each
CD in the Ballad of America catalogue has a different theme.
There are currently two different volumes available, but many more are
planned.
Volume
1: Over a Wide and Fruitful Land
The journey on this CD begins in the latter part of the eighteenth century
when the United States of America became an independent nation. It follows
the paths of the pioneers, sailors, lumberjacks, immigrants, '49ers,
farmers, slaves, soldiers, cowboys, and railroaders who moved the country
across the continent and into the twentieth century.
Volume
2: America Singing
The songs in this collection
are among the most commonly sung in the history of the United States.
They present uniquely American musical blends, with roots in European
and African traditions and branches that have sprouted countless regional
and personal variants throughout the country. Collectively, these songs
of work, fun, and love transcend social and ethnic boundaries, painting
a broad picture of America during the 18th and 19th centuries when music
making was, for many, an integral part of everyday life.
