The Gadsden Music Club met recently at the Music Center at Temple Beth Israel, 761 Chestnut Street, to celebrate their annual Parade of American Music Program. President Carol Larkins welcomed members and guests.
Hazel Oliver gave the Invocation. Stacey Garmon led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Sacred Music Chairman Kristin Dunn led the singing of the Federation Hymn, Collect and the Hymn of the Month, “For the Beauty of the Earth.” Ron Higgins accompanied on the piano.
The national Federation of Music Clubs observes Parade of American Music annually in November and the city of Gadsden issued a proclamation. Chairman Diana Rampey introduced Susie Stephenson and Craig L.W. Boden from Gadsden and Dave Edwards from Gallant who are three of the members of the string band Un-Reconstructed.
They were honored with an Emmy for Musical Arrangement and Composition for music provided for the documentary called “The Last Ditch.” Dressed in vintage clothing, Stephenson and Boden played the hammered dulcimer; Edwards played the lead guitar and harmonies. The band performs 19th century period music and Celtic folk. They played and sang the following songs: “When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again,” “Shenandoah,” “Ashokan Farewell,” “Oh Suzzanah,” “Dixie,” “Rose of Alabamy,” “Oh Polly,” and “Red River Valley.” The entire group has been sharing their music all over the country for over 20 years.
Stacey Garmon reviewed the book “The Peanuts Illustrated Songbook, Introduction by Hank Bordowity.” Music by David Guaraldi was performed by Sharron Yancy.
Following announcements, the meeting was adjourned by the singing of the NFMC official benediction, “The Gift of Song.”
The Gadsden Music Club is a member of the Alabama National Federation of Music Clubs and was organized in 1915.
Submitted by Bob Hicks
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