Old Town School of Folk Music: Songbook Vol. 2 & 3

First (from Wiki):

The Old Town School of Folk Music is a Chicago-based teaching and performing institution that launched the careers of many notable folk music artists.

Founded by folk musicians Frank Hamilton and Win Stracke, the school opened in Old Town in 1957, offering guitar and banjo lessons and hosting performances by well-known folk musicians. The formation and growth of the School coincided with the folk music boom of the 1960s and early 1970s. Throughout its existence, the school has focused on offering both instruction and performance, with many performing musicians also acting as teachers and mentors. The school also proved to be a rich ground for collaboration.

The Old Town School of Folk Music Songbook series is comprised of four volumes. Songbook Volume 1 was released in October 2006, with Songbook Vol. 2 & 3 following on July 31, 2007. Like the first release, this latest set features established artists and Old Town School instructors offering their takes on classic folk songs from the school’s songbook. Coming in at 42 tracks (21 per disc), this collection, like any compilation, has its hits and also its misses. However, if you are patient and give the cd’s the time they deserve, I think you’ll find that the hits do out number the misses.

Songbook Vol. 2 & 3 is available through Bloodshot Records, as is Vol. 1. If you do buy these 2 discs, make sure to take the time and read the included booklet. Paul Tyler, a fiddle teacher at the school, provides very detailed and insightful commentary in the liner notes which explains the origin and significance of each song.

Nora O’Connor – Home on the Range
The Zincs – Simple Gifts