44 - Interview with Jim Ludlam: The Fort Delaware Cornet Band

The Early American Brass Band Podcast

Episode 44 is our great conversation with Jim Ludlam, principal musician of the Fort Delaware Cornet Band, historian, and author. Jim speaks with us about how he got involved in 19th century brass bands, founding the modern Fort Delaware Cornet Band, recording projects, and his book The History of Community Bands in Salem County New Jersey. You can learn all about Jim’s projects at www.ludlambrass.com

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Music in this episode comes from the Fort Delaware Cornet Band, and The 8th GM Regiment Band.

Episode Structure:

• 1:14 - Jim's musical background

• 2:43 - Jim's interest in history, getting started playing in 19th century brass bands

• 10:51 - Founding the Fort Delaware Cornet Band

• 14:05 - What intrigued Jim about the 19th century brass band music

• 17:52 - Performing 19th century brass band music with high school bands

• 21:20 - Music as political activism, Patriotism, Protest, and the Music That Made a Nation, John Meecham and Tim McGraw

• 33:25 - Fort Delaware Cornet Band instruments, members, uniforms, repertoire

• 49:22 - Hazelton Liberty Brass Band recording project

• 1:03:34 - Jim's research for his book The History of Community Bands in Salem County New Jersey

• 1:16:52 - Where you can find more about the groups Jim is involved in, and where you can buy his book

• 1:18:21 - Featured Album: Down In A Coalmine, Music of the historical Hazelton Liberty Brass Band