Concert and Opening Celebration. A Silver Dagger: Exploring Women’s History Through Folksongs with Diane Taraz

Passed down for generations, folk songs show centuries of attitudes and beliefs that have fascinating echoes in our lives today. Through music that brims with energy and humor, determination and despair, Diane looks at ordinary people in centuries past, finding in old songs many clues to the inner lives of people in Europe and America from about 1500 to 1850. Women left few written records, but we can learn much about them through the music they used to speed their work, lift their spirits, or ease an aching heart. With a sparkling voice and wry humor, Diane performs songs of love, childbirth, marriage and adventure in traditional dress and accompanies her singing with lap dulcimer and English guitar (the type of instrument played by women back then). She often sings with voice alone, the most authentic style, exploring the joys and sorrows of a world lit only by fire.  A reception to celebrate the end of a successful capital campaign and the new completed restoration of the house will follow the concert.  Refreshments will be served. No charge but donations are welcome. 3 p.m.

Please note: the museum is closed for tours this day.