Lem Sheppard, Speaker
Internationally known musician and historian
African American Musicians in Kansas 1860-1920
Presentation by: Lem Sheppard
African American musicians from 1860-1920 are often part of an under-told story in Kansas history. Not defined as traditionally Black music, these musicians played in mandolin quartets, cornet bands, orchestras, and string bands. They performed as itinerant musicians and jubilee singers at civic events, weddings, fairs, barn dances, and private homes. They were an important feature of the musical landscape of Kansas, and their history mirrors the history of Kansas itself: the struggle of abolition, the Civil War, and Western migration. This talk explores the dynamic musical history of African Americans, and the social and cultural impacts in Kansas. Lem will also perform musical samples.
Contact Lem directly about speaking at your event:
lemshep@yahoo.com
(620) 875-9131
Pittsburg