Charlie Zahm & The Civil War 

While Charlie Zahm is one of the most popular singers at Celtic and maritime music events in the Eastern United States,  just a few years ago Charlie's interest in the great collection of music from the War Between the States was sparked when several friends in the Civil War community  *finally* convinced him that with his wide array of Scottish, Irish and otherwise traditional American songs under his belt, he was more than halfway there to a strong Civil War repertoire—and that he would be a welcome addition to that community through his music.

They were exactly right! Charlie's interest in history (in fact, one of his degrees is in history) led him to disciplined research of the period, and how it affected the body of music now so important to its proper understanding.

Further, after finding a photo of Col. Lewis Zahm of the Third Ohio Cavalry at a library in Ohio (pictured here), Charlie found the first of many family connections to the War. Col. Zahm—still much revered in Ohio—was the uncle of the first Charles Louis Zahm (and lent his name to the child, though it is now spelled differently), and Charlie is the fifth in line to hold that exact name; so he is actually, in part, named after a Civil War officer. Charlie does his best to present these great songs with the honor due both them and the subjects they recollect. His 13^th CD, "Americana," is heavily influenced by music of the War, and the collection of songs (clips of which can be heard elsewhere on this website) has proven a favorite of those who enjoy the study of this period. When not performing in civilian outfit comfortable singing songs of either side of the Conflict, Charlie represents a member of the 79^th New York Volunteers—the Highlanders—and Charlie's knowledge of this great regiment of well-traveled soldiers, as well as his grasp of Scottish history (the first few hundred men of the 79^th were either Scottish or Scottish-American) help to bring the Highlanders alive through songs they sung or which relate to their experience. Charlie performs at many re-enactments, scholarly meetings (such as Round Tables), historic sites and concerts, and he puts a program together all enjoy. When Charlie is with excellent fiddler Tad Marks, some lively period dance tunes are presented in addition to a fine program of song. Virginia Reel anyone?

See also the "Fan Pics" link at the top of this page for photos at various events. Thanks to Pat Crowe (http://www.patcrowephotography.com)  for the promotional pictures of Charlie on this page, and to Margaret Sholders for the photo of Charlie and Tad in civilian dress.