Makes me smile.
Daniel T. Gianola-Norris | Cotati, CA | 09/02/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a 2 Disc set of charming 19th Century American music of the "everyday" variety: polkas, quadrilles, waltzes...tunes like "Pop Goes the Weasel" played sweetly and without a hint of irony. If you're looking for sophisticated concert music, look elsewhere. This is the music Americans were playing and hearing in park bands, "social orchestras", etc. Highlights include stunning performances by trumpet virtuoso Alan Vizutti on E-flat cornet. Also notable are the vocal quartet recreations of the spiritual songs and abolitionist anthems of the Hutchinson Family Singers. This collection is like a lively little piece of American history on disc, elegantly performed by all invloved. The 27-page booklet is crammed with interesting information."
Homespun America
Emmett Anglin | South Carolina | 05/17/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Good historical performances. Something anyone ionterested in this period in American musical history should have."