I was inspired by several musicians I've witnessed at past NCOWS events....and decided to teach myself basic guitar a few years ago. My repertoire is fairly short, and limited to playing melodies (little interest in chords and vocalization on my part), but I can make "noise" for at least 10 minutes non-stop. If people tell me I remind them of a Ken Burns documentary, I take it as a compliment that they've heard one or more of the songs. A handful I have memorized include:
garryowen, just before the battle mother, battle cry of the republic, battle cry of freedom girl I left behind, tramp tramp tramp,
yellow rose of texas, shall we gather at the river, Hot time in the old town, minstrel boy, shall we gather at the river, and a few more...I forget the titles.
Not to forget...For my confederate friends: bonnie blue flag & i'm a good ol rebel
Currently working on: red, white & blue & marching through georgia
While I don't generally consider these "cowboy" songs, they were among the most recognized of the day...and potentially heard in any setting. I'm playing on a Mitchell, standard-size, 6-string acoustic guitar.....anyone have a better idea of the typical size/style of a 19th century guitar?
Thanks,
Slim