Making Music for History's Sake

Musician plays reputed David Crockett fiddle from 1819

August 2004

It's one thing to see the fiddle that David Crockett is reputed to once have made music with. But to hear music from that same instrument will be a special treat.

Visitors to the Sept. 4 Family Day opening of the new Texas Originals exhibit will hear history come to life, when nationally renowned musician Dean Shostak plays the restored 1819 fiddle.

Shostak, who is recognized as an American music pioneer, partnered with the Witte Museum in San Antonio to have the fiddle restored for recordings and special concerts. He was also a soloist with the San Antonio Symphony Orchestra for the premier of The Alamo.

Shostak, who lives in Williamsburg, Virginia, is primarily known for playing the glass armonica, an instrument invented by Benjamin Franklin in 1761.

He has appeared on All Things Considered on National Public Radio, Nightside on NBC, Good Morning TV on the BBC, The Weather Channel and Mister Roger's Neighborhood. His music combines history and humor with period and original compositions.

For more information about Shostak, visit www.glassmusic.com

Come see the fiddle, and hear the music at the September 4 Family Day: Celebrations in Traditions, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.