Project Overview
Project Overview
As a part of my research, I hope to talk to people who were fans of folk music during what some have called the "Great Boom", 1958 - 1965. I am curious as to your experiences with finding folk music, watching it on television, going to concerts, or hosting your own hootenannies with friends. Did you ever see the Kingston Trio in concert? Did you every go to a taping of Hootenanny? Did you every host your own sing-along? I’d love to hear your stories.
I’m also curious about what the music means to you, personally. I’m a firm believer that music is total emotional expression. It simultaneously encapsulates idea, emotions, history, hopes, and so much more. What did the music mean to you? How have you carried it with you since the Great Boom? Has that the meaning of the music changed over time?
Why Oral History?
One of the great things about studying this time period is that there are still people around to tell their stories. While much of the history of folk revivalism has focused on the musicians, or the music producers, I would like to hear more from the fans. You had a role in the revival as well, even if you couldn't play a guitar, you could play a record. This project is an opportunity for you to share your personal history and (with your permission) to preserve it for future historians. Your story could help this project and future projects understand music and life in this era.
If you would like to get involved with with project, please click the link below.