Help Document Early American Music

Hello, I am Mark Bridge, reenactor, performer and teacher of historical music.   I have spent years building a website that contains the Chuck Wagon Registry along with a huge online collection of Victorian, antebellum and Civil War song lyrics and history of 19th century America.  I even have a few appearances on television.  Short clips from those programs, as well as my introduction to banjo videos, have garnered tens of thousands of views on YouTube.  

I am in the final stages of a major rewrite of my American  music and history presentation, "Historical Notes".  The program covers the music of America during the 1800's from the Minstrel period thru the Civil War, Stephen Foster and late Victorian parlor music.  I will even perform the show in period costume and play musical instruments of the period; this approach allows the listener to hear the music as it was heard in the 1800's.  The show is in final development but I could really use help getting the program's important companion CD finished and ready to distribute.  The cost of putting the show together (instruments, costumes, stage props and collateral material, etc.) has really depleted my reserves.  I can handle the recording cost on my own but the cost of graphic design and manufacture are creating a real obstacle.  With other folks helping me I will be able to complete the project and provide a CD that documents this wonderful music.  The amount I am trying to achieve is for the entry level CD package that will get me started in grand style.  If I am blessed beyond my goal it will help me develop the show to include better staging and other great things.

I live in a small town in Minnesota and I am the care giver for an elderly parent.  The aforementioned, along with my music, performing, and teaching of all things old are how I make my rather meager living - but I wouldn't trade it for the world.  It is not often that I ask for help with anything but in this case it seems prudent.  I have much to accomplish, relatively soon, and there is no way I can set enough little installments aside to finish the CD in a timely manner.  I will be eternally grateful to any good folks who will help me with "Historical Notes".  

Any small amount can do wonders. Donors at the $20 level or more will get a copy of the new CD.  Local donors will be invited to a Historical Notes meet & greet.