Submitted by Susan R. Waide
(April 12, 2026) — On Friday, April 17, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at the East Haddam Grange Hall, come enjoy an evening with Joe Flood, instrumentalist, songwriter, and historian, and Dr. James “Jim” Clark, a leading expert on Connecticut’s fife and drum tradition, as they step back in time and share how American music found its voice.
“When American Music Became American” is an engaging, live program for all ages that celebrates the sounds and stories of a revolutionary America and more. Along with live musical demonstrations and storytelling, the presenters will explore how early American music development was affected by culture and historical events.
Dr. Clark is widely recognized for his work preserving this important musical heritage. He is the founding member and director of Connecticut Valley Field Music, a Middletown-based fife and drum corps established in 1989. He also has served as the Minister of Music at Broad Brook Congregational Church and has mentored musicians across the region. Dr. Clark is the author of “Connecticut’s Fife & Drum Tradition” (Wesleyan University Press, 2011), considered the definitive history of the form. His research traces the tradition from its European military roots through the Revolutionary and Civil War periods to modern-day performances.
“This entertaining and lively program brings history to life through music,” said Evelyn Morgen, Director of the East Haddam Library System. “It’s a unique opportunity for the community to experience the origins of American sound in an interactive and memorable way.” This program is sponsored by the Friends of Rathbun Library and the Friends of the East Haddam Free Public Library.
Photo of Joe Flood provided by East Haddam Library System