Greenblatt & Seay

Old Schoolhouse • PO Box 671 • Avoca, NE 68307

David Seay
david@greenblattandseay.com David sings, plays over a dozen instruments, teaches private music lessons, and conducts workshops, most notably in harmonica and songwriting. He began singing in his church choir in Birmingham, Alabama at the age of three. When he was thirteen he became bugler of his boy scout troop. On his 21st birthday a friend gave him a harmonica and David was hooked. It wasn’t long before he was writing songs and playing in bands. Combining his passions for music, history, and storytelling, David has presented Humanities Nebraska (previously called ‘Nebraska Humanities Council’) Speakers Bureau programs since 1997. He is a master artist with the Nebraska Arts Council’s Artist-in-Schools/Communities Residency Program and has been conducting residencies for over 25 years.

“The ‘Tradition’ in Traditional Folk Music”

This presentation features demonstrations and stories of folk instruments such as harmonica, penny whistle, Lakota style flute, ocarina, pan pipes, animal horn, bugle, musical saw, banjo, singing bowl, and limber toys. The introduction of a new instrument every few minutes keeps this program upbeat and makes it easy to tailor for groups of any age from preschoolers to senior citizens.

(30-90 min.)

Also available through the
Humanities Nebraska Speaker’s Bureau

“Nebraska Territory Stories”

Performing as a mid-1800s entertainer, multi-instrumentalist Seay sings and plays popular folk music of the period. Between tunes he regales his audience with stories of everyday life for the pioneers and of important events that occurred during those 13 years before Nebraska became a state. This cheerful show is suitable for the entire family.

(45-60 min.)

Also available through the
Humanities Nebraska Speaker’s Bureau

“Train Songs and Tales of the Westward Rails”

What is it about trains that so easily engages one’s imagination? Climb aboard with David Seay as he weaves tales of the westward expansion of the railroad towards Nebraska’s western border in the mid-1800s with a variety of popular train inspired songs. This upbeat excursion features storytelling, banjo, harmonica, whistles, and sing-alongs.

(45-60 min.)

Also available through the
Humanities Nebraska Speaker’s Bureau

“Harmonica Workshops”

Within the first few minutes workshop participants will be playing actual folk songs on their very own harmonicas.

Also available for schools through the Humanities Nebraska Speakers Bureau is a one day, three to eight hour “Folk Traditions Through Music” residency that features a hands-on introduction to harmonica.

“Residencies”

David is also available for a five day residency through the Nebraska Arts Council’s Artist-in-the-Schools/Communities Residency Program.

“Very professional, entertaining, and educational.”
...Project Director
Seward Arts Council
after a Humanities Nebraska Speakers Bureau Presentatiion of
“The ‘Tradition’ in Traditional Folk Music”

“The stories and songs make history much more real. Well done!”
...Audience member
after a Humanities Nebraska Speakers Bureau Presentatiion of
“Train Songs and Tales of the Westward Rails”

“I really enjoy history. It was nice to see it from musical side.”
...Audience member
after a Humanities Nebraska Speakers Bureau Presentatiion of
“Nebraska Territory Stories”

“Thank you for a wonderful afternoon. You are the best at what you do... Talk about a room full of happy people.”
...Associate Curator of Education
Youth, Family, and Community Programs,
Joslyn Art Museum
after harmonica workshops for "two packed houses" at "Family Day"

“This presenter was awesome. He was very well prepared, enjoyable and interesting.”
...Harmonica workshop participant
W. Dale Clark - Omaha Public Library

“Excellent! David really interacted well with the audience.”
...Program Director
Lincoln Area Agency on Aging

“I was impressed with the way you handled students, the patience you exhibited, your humor (even if the kids didn’t always get it), and the simplicity of your instruction. I’ve put you on my “Excellent” list. You’ll get asked again to come here.”
...Principal Lincoln Elementary School, Hastings, Nebraska
after a Nebraska Arts Council Artists-in-the-Schools/Communities Residency

“I walked in your school one day with a harp. I never put it away, I blow to this day... 20 yrs later I still stand. Because of you two. Your family gave me a gift I’m grateful for. Thank-you!”
...Ex-student/current harmonica player, Omaha, Nebraska

“It was another great week! You are a great fellow, fun companion, and a fantastic musician!”
...Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale
after an annual week long Statehood Day Celebration tour

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