A. Trae McMaken

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Reviews and Feedback

 

"Trae McMaken astounded the audience . . . A terrific fiddler and singer he definitely is!"

Beaver Island News on the 'Net, 2010.

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"Corn roast brought community together

      China Township held its annual Corn Roast Sept. 8 for its residents who were treated to something very special by way of entertainment: a fiddler. Residents were notified of the event by way of a newsletter. Sheer brilliance of style, executed in the most authentic, creative and passionate way possible, all in the persona of such a young man: Trae McMaken.

     Hometown grown in the heart of China Township, Trae's "performance," actually his story telling art, transformed the ordinary into extraordinary. 

     From his telling of the "golden field" behind his boyhood home, to the beautiful "Belle" river that flows throughout the township of China, to the origination of the naming of Puttygut Road, which traverses the township (all done in song and fiddle).

     Spellbound, yet foot stomping, our residents were entertained by fiddle, banjo and acoustic guitar; left breathless in a state of remembering while Trae concluded with "Amazing Grace" that the fiddle intoned to resemble the bagpipes' melancholy notes. To God Be the Glory.

     Thank you, Trae. On behalf of our whole township and the recreation committee:

   Linda Schweihofer, Supervisor, China Township."

From The Voice, October 3, 2012. 

"Wonderful - Enlightening - Fun - Great Living History Lessons . . . Trae takes time to explain the origins of his music and his instruments - such a wealth of knowledge of fiddling that he shares."

"The combination of stories and music you present is a treasure."

Joan Vinette, Michigan State University Extension Program, "Life of Lake Superior," Outdoor Education, 2012.

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"We were lucky to get you and your music, Trae. Wonderfully intricate and historic music."

"We were really pleased to hear the kind and quality of music you brought to us. Accoustic music about the Great Lakes, Michigan, Canada!! Plus grand words and voice! You added the touches of goodness of character and fine music that Munising Bay Arts Festival really appreciates."

Ramble G. Nichols, Munising Bay Arts Association, 2012

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"Loved the songs + stories."

Karen O'Brien, Atkins School, Bridgeport, Michigan, 2012.

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"You were very entertaining to the children and built rapport with them almost instantly. We greatly appreciated you supporting our event and would love to use you again in the future!"

Organizer, Turning Pages Together, Literacy Celebration/Disability Awareness Event at Barnes and Noble, 2012.

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"Wonderful!! I would recommend all schools to utilize this program it really helps students put the Revolutionary War into prospective. The war was not cut and dry, it was not just as simple as the American side fighting against the British. The Revolutionary War was a very complex situation that involved differences of ideals and idealogies often within the same family or clan. Trae McMaken has the unique ability to bring that to life in a simple way so that students can make sense of it."  

 "I think that you did a fabulous job. The students were amazed at your ability to tell your story so well. "   "We have been finished with this portion of NC History for some time now but I believe the students will remember more from the 40 minutes spent with you than they will from their entire unit." 

"Your ability to bring the story to life has sparked such an interest in them that any story you decide to do please keep us aware of it. Thanks for your time.

8th Grade Language Arts & Social Studies Teacher,

 Table Rock Middle School, 

North Carolina. 2012.

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"It was refreshing to hear different perspectives concerning the campaign and Battle of Kings Mountain. The inclusion of music and various view points helped to tell a well rounded story while holding the attention of the audience. At the Abingdon Muster Grounds, we are dedicated to tell the story of the Overmountain Men and the vital part they playing during the American Revolution. Trae’s story telling fit perfectly with our mission. In addition, Trae gave presentations regarding music during the colonial era which was both informative and fun."

"Trae’s performance was both informative and captivating. Not only were the students engaged by the storytelling, but the Interpreters who are very familiar with the story of the campaign and Battle of Kings Mountain were as well. Trae’s unique approach was a great way to open our event."

"We would love to have you join us for other events in the future!"

Leigh Anne Hunter
Superintendent of the Abingdon Muster Grounds
Event: John Battle High School, 11th Grade Field Trip, 2012.

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"Trae was phenomenal. Between his detailed knowledge of the Battle of Kings Mountain and his talents as a storyteller and musician, he 'brought to life' the 18th century. His impact on his audience was evident: survey after survey listed Trae's stories and music as something they will never forget about their evening, even though there was much going on as part of our event. We are so grateful he was able to be part of our Candlelight Christmas."

"It was a great blend of storytelling & music, which allowed our visitors not only to learn some of the details of Kings Mountain, but just as valuable-- the social and cultural history by demonstrating the music and art of storytelling."

TJ DeWitt, Rocky Mount Living History Museum and Historic Site: Candlelight Christmas, 2012.

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"The performance was engaging and held the students' attention."

"The kids enjoyed all aspects of the event, ecpecially the fiddling."

"I would like you to come back next year if you can."

Teacher, Holston Valley Middle School,  Tennessee, 2012.

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"We were all pleased with your presentation."

"My students liked the representation of the characters and the songs."

"I thought the performance was very interesting and well presented."

Teacher, Sullivan East High School, Appalachian Studies class, Tennessee, 2012.

"Communication prior to the performance is a strength since Trae quickly responded to all emails. He arrived early for the performance and stayed late in order to talk with attendees. The performance was excellent."

Organizer
Netherland Inn/Exchange Place Association Annual Meeting, 2013.

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