All work and no play not only make Johnny a dull boy, but it also may well mean he is missing out on some of the most enjoyable aspects of living. Certainly this would have been true for members of the Corps of Discovery if they had not enjoyed the playing of music as they traveled west. For today's videoconference, we'll look at folk music and military music of the early 1800's and how music was part of the original expedition. Students have the chance to interact with musicians and re-enactors to learn about military music, folk songs, instruments of the time, and one of the musical members of the Corps, Pierre Cruzatte. Musical performances are featured throughout the program.
Contents of the Broadcast:
1. Opening to 3:51--Introduction, welcome, orientation to the day's topic,
2. 3:51 to 17:48--This section focuses on the military music of the time by looking at the fife as an important musical instrument with military applications. Included are an interview with Scott Mandrell, formerly of the Old Guard of the U.S. Army, and a performance by fifers of the Lewis and Clark Fife and Drum Corps. Corps members answer student questions.
3. 17:48 to 39:31-This segment looks at popular music of the time. Discovery Expedition musicians Bob Plummer and Al Puknat join us to perform popular music from the time of the expedition on period instruments including the dulcimer, jaw harp, and penny whistle. They discuss music of the time, how instruments were made, and the roles of the French voyagers and other musical members of the expedition including Pierre Cruzatte.
4. 39:31 to 57:24-We return to military music of the time as we look at the field drum and its use with the military. We are joined by re-enactor and field drumming expert James Smith, who performs on the drum and speaks with us about its uses and history and how to play it. He answers student questions about the drum and how to play it. A joint performance with Mr. Smith and members of the Lewis and Clark Fife and Drum Corps of St. Charles is also included.
5. 57:24 to End--Closing comments, thanks to all involved, and goodbye.
