Background

Is it a time forgotten? 1865 was a long time ago, almost a hundred years after 1776. 50 years before WWI and WWII. People started driving cars and taking hot showers. My parents were born within a hundred years from the death of Lincoln. History marks many changes. Despite the passage of so much time, I can distinctly feel within myself a sense of connection to events that happened during the last year of Abraham Lincoln's life whether it is strolling through Civil War battleground sites or standing right next to the site where the South surrendered to the North. 

Describing Abraham Lincoln’s profound influence on American history as anything less than monumental would be inadequate. He assumed the responsibility of safeguarding and upholding a nation during what he described as the “momentous issue of civil war.” Lincoln’s origins were modest, lacking wealth or renown in his family lineage. He was raised in the rugged wilderness amidst bears and other untamed creatures. Despite not possessing all the comforts, not emerging victorious in every debate, and encountering various hardships, he consistently toiled diligently in the face of adversity. His assassination, originally intended to harm the Northern States, ironically served to strengthen the resolve to preserve the union and ensure the permanent freedom of the enslaved.

This recital offers a glimpse into the life of Lincoln, capturing a range of events that occurred. It isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. With Lincoln, we know a lot about his personality. What you’ll encounter in this performance is a blend of Lincoln’s own commentary, perspectives from those who opposed him, occasional insights into the music and entertainment of his era, as well as some pointed criticisms. The culmination of the concert will feature a dignified memorial rendition of George Horton’s poem in honor of Lincoln. Horton, who spent most of his life as a slave, ultimately secured his freedom by selling his poetry and became a free man after the Civil War.