Robert Mouland is one of the few performers that presents the music of Colonial America
on genuine antique instruments. For years, his appearances in accurate historical
clothing have both entertained and educated audiences from around the world, at some of
the most historic settings in America including George Washington's Mount Vernon,
Carpenter's Hall, The National Constitution Center, Colonial Williamsburg and the
Museum Of The American Revolution. He has spent decades studying the musical traditions
of Ireland and the British Isles, and their impact on Colonial America. The resulting
repetoire is a blend of lively jigs, reels and gentle airs would have been familiar to the
Founding Fathers and Common Folk alike at dances, dinners and public events. His
clothing is historically accurate and embellished with many antique accessories. When
combined with the very instruments played in the 18th century, the result is a truly unique
performance in every way. He only uses these rare instruments when performing indoors.
For outdoor events, he employs a reproduction baroque violin, baroque flute and flageolet
and shuttle bagpipes. For most historical outdoor events. Robert brings his jig puppets that
include George Washington and Benjamin Franklin (see “Dancers On A String”).
Invented by Louis Carrogis Carmontelle in 1787, modern people have dubbed these
hand turned story boxes “crankies”. Originally used an an instructional tool
they evolved into an elegant entertainment for the wealthy of France. The
Getty Museum has called them the “Cinema Of The Enlightenment”. Most likely
brought to America by Robert Fulton ( of steamboat fame) they were a popular
travelling entertainment that grew tremendously in size, some scrolls measuring
eight feet high and hundreds of feet long. Robert Mouland has recreated this
fascinating piece of history and currently offers his original family friendly stories:
"Tall Tales Of Young George Washington" and “A Pearl For Martha”.