America's Cassandra: Connie Converse at 100

When the music of the previously unknown Connie Converse was released in 2009, decades after she deliberately disappeared in 1974 (never to be heard from again), it created a new reference point in American music, and a need to rewrite the music history books. Connie Converse could see the future. A trailblazing songwriter, composer, performer, thinker, activist, writer and community organizer, Converse (1924-?) spent her known life engaged with creative and intellectual pursuits that pointed toward many of today's cultural preoccupations, including: pioneering the DIY indie musician model; railing against fascism; agitating against institutional racism: exploring the roots of human conflict; and experimenting with alternative methods of public education. There was only one problem: she was invisible. Converse was a friend and colleague of former Madison resident George Heinold, and was a regular visitor to Madison in the late 1950s.

Join us for a talk with author Howard Fishman as we learn about the life, music and the mystery of Connie Converse.

This program is a Topically Ted Event. "Topically Ted" is a series inspired by the loves and life of Ted Mallory, founded in 2017 in honor of the eponymous Madison resident and beloved friend of the library. These special events are held quarterly and are made possible by the Mallory Family. Please sign up below!