Blues 101 at Groton Public Library
Schedule
Thu, 29 Jan, 2026 at 06:30 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Groton Public Library | Groton, CT
Thank you for considering my proposal to present my Blues 101 Program. I have obtained a grant providing supplemental funding from the CT Blues Society which means that the fee to you would be whatever your budget can afford. Truly you can pay as little or much as you are able, and the Blues Society will make up the difference. Most libraries have paid $200 or less…. truly up to you and making the program affordable even for smaller libraries..I have prepared a short three minute video below that will give you a good idea of what the program is about. Below that is a detailed summary that should answer many questions. I have presented all over the state of CT and beyond including libratries in Fairfield, Darien, Orange, Milford, Waterbury, Preston, Glastonbury, Granby, Andover and others. The CT Blues Society will also help with promotion through its statewide network. Thanks for taking the time to check out my proposal and I would be happy to talk to you more about it.
Thanks and hope to hear from you soon.
Ramblin’ Dan Stevens
"What a great event! Through a multi-media presentation and his live performance, Dan took the audience through the fascinating history of blues music. He's very engaging and a pleasure to work with – I’m highly recommending this program!" Mary Coe, Fairfield Public Library
Link to 3 min. Promo Video - Blues 101
What is Blues 101 ?
Blues 101 is an entertaining and educational program encompassing the history of blues music in America from its origins in the African American tradition of the deep south to the present.
Tell me about the program…
The program is a multi-media presentation of classic blues pieces played on authentic vintage instruments interspersed with historical images, video and educational material. The music is traced chronologically through its development in different regions of the south and follows the great African American migration to important centers like Memphis, Chicago and beyond. The roots of rock and roll, jazz and even hip hop can be traced to this important form. Of special interest are pieces performed on Dan's homemade, three stringed "Cigar Box Guitar" and one stringed "Diddley Bow", both primitive instruments used by early bluesmen and played with a "bottleneck" slide.
What will I learn?
A participant will come away from the program with an understanding of the evolution of the music, awareness of the differences in varied styles, exposure to influential artists and fuller appreciation of African American culture related to the genesis of this important and uniquely American genre.
Who is the program for?
The program is designed for libraries, schools and diverse groups of adults and children and is adaptable for various settings.
Who is Ramblin’ Dan Stevens?
Presenter "Ramblin" Dan Stevens is a veteran touring bluesman and teacher who has entertained audiences throughout the US, Germany, UK, Canada and Virgin Islands. As a finalist in the International Blues Challenge on Beale St. in Memphis TN and protege of the legendary folk/blues icon, Dave Van Ronk, Dan has been lauded for his ability as a raconteur and for the authenticity of his approach gained by many years on the road as a traveling blues musician. More info: www.danstevens.net
What they are saying about Ramblin’ Dan Stevens….
"I have always been impressed by Dan’s command of the blues, both vocally and on the guitar.His readings of traditional songs and of his own compositions are delightful and convincing.
A hell of an all-round entertainer!"
Dave Van Ronk, New York City
"What a great program ! The combination of learning the history of the blues and then playing the music really helped us to understand how uniquely American the music is.. We loved the different instruments and their distinctive sound."
Phyllis Gwatkin, Friends of Case Memorial Library, Orange CT
What a GREAT show last night ! ! I had expected a medley of blues classics sung & played by Dan Stevens. I had no idea that he would create a living museum of vintage guitars, ea. with a its own story vividly told, and accompanied by AV bios of the past century of blues performers.
Nicholas Westbrook, Old Lyme Historical Society
“Dan’s ability to make the students feel comfortable and involved in his lessons helped to make this experience one our students will remember.”
Terri Kirkland , Cornwall Consolidated School
“I have yet to hear any musician who is better than Dan in engaging an audience. He is gifted with a great sense of humor and the ability to interact with a variety of people.”
Georgia Michalec , Stafford Arts Council
We would be very interested in the Blues101 Program. I’ve heard very poswitive things from other librarians.
Debby Holland, Brookfield Library
Where is it happening?
Groton Public Library, 52 Newtown Rd,Noank, Connecticut, Groton, United States
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