As Executive Director of the Historical Society of Glastonbury one of my jobs is to pick four public programs a year. I had never heard of the Band of Steady Habits before, but several of my friends had, and highly recommended them. What a great choice! The program they presented was “Frost Season,” a unique event highlighting the works of American poet Robert Frost paired with songs that reflect and amplify the power of New England’s most beloved poet. Walter Woodward and his musical partners presented a unique tribute to Frost– a lecture, love story, poetry reading, and song-pairing, all in one. We had close to 100 people show up and they were delighted. I received more compliments on this show than anyone we have had in the past 20 years. The history intertwined with the poetry and music was fun, enlightening and touching. I would highly recommend them and I’m looking forward to having them present their other programs at one of our next events.
Testimonials
“This group has it all – depth and breadth of historical scholarship, outstanding musical performance, and great audience connection. History made memorable, informative, entertaining, engaging and provocative. This is a wonderful group for fundraising events!”
Andrea Stannard, Columbia Historical Society
“I thoroughly enjoyed the Band of Steady Habits. What a treat. I think some version of your presentation (Handed Down in Song) would be a hit on Ted Talks. Everyone loves music, everyone loves stories (even if they think they don’t like history), and you have the engaging stage presence that pulls it all together. A great concept perfectly executed.”
C. Sommer, Avery Memorial Association
“Your presentation (Handed Down in Song: New England History & Culture) was a great blend of wit, whimsy, music, and history… [it] was interesting, fun, and informative. In short, the audience loved it.”
Jim Feeny, East Granby
“I thoroughly enjoyed it. (Handed Down in Song: New England History and Culture) The song selection was a good representation of different aspects of life in the past, especially with your explanations as to their meaning and context. It was also nice to have different configurations of performers for each song. Each musician added their unique part in voice and instrument making for a wonderful, well-blended group. You all sounded great!”
Nancy Moody, East Granby Historical Society
“I have seldom seen an audience so at ease and eager to join in – what great fun! The angelic encore provided by the Misses Smith was most stirring and patriotic!” (The Civil War Search for a New National Anthem)
Jennifer M. Emerson, Denison Homestead Museum
“Your very creative presentation of our region’s history and culture (Handed Down in Song) was perfect for this mixed audience of international students, scholars, teachers, American Fulbright alumni, families and guests. We really appreciate you and your colleagues sharing your time and talents, and contributing to all of our cultural enrichment. Thanks again for your gift!”
Tom Agoston, Fulbright Association (CT Chapter)
“The program (Frost Season: The Poetry of Robert Frost in Story and Song) embodied everything we cherish as New Englanders and especially why we choose to live here in beautiful, history-filled Connecticut.”
Chester Historical Society
“When we heard you recite the poetry of Frost’s New England, and we listened to your wonderful songs from contemporary culture that reflected Frost’s insights—insights that are universal to every New England state—we just fell in love all over again with our own Connecticut.”
Chester Historical Society
“As Trustees of the Chester Historical Society, we want to thank you for your wonderful history lesson through music and poetry presented in Chester (Frost Season: The Poetry of Robert Frost in Story and Song). Everyone agreed that it was a fun and exciting presentation, and your accompanying musicians—the 5-member Band of Steady Habits—were excellent.”
The Band of Steady Habits 