Because the collection is so vast, and at the same time so little known, there are marvelous song discoveries ahead for any of you who like to sing. Making this CD is about spreading the word!

I am involved in a researh project and made a committment to really get to know the collection so thus far I've listened to over 3000 songs. The musical and folkloric content absolutely boggles the mind.

This is a cornucopia of songs representing all the ethnic groups that settled in New England, descriptions of their professions, songs of the old country heritages (Child ballads and more), historical accounts and epic deeds; songs of murder, betrayal, loss and nostalgia; anti-men, anti-women, anti-mother-in-law and "in search of" songs; religious songs, children's rock-a-bye songs and songs related to seafaring, as well as what a sailor does when he hits land. You name it, there's probably a song about it.

Mudcatters on the road this summer might think of heading to the Champlain Valley Folk Festival in Vermont (Aug. 1-3). On Sunday there will be two sessions dedicated to the Flanders Collection--one a concert and the other a workshop. A number of fine performers will be participating --Margaret MacArthur, Dan Milner and his Irish Songs in New England group, the Atlantic Crossing group, Debra Cowan, Deb Flanders and Pete Sutherland.   Check it out!
http://www.cvfest.org/cvfest2003

Nancy-Jean