The Georgia School That’s Keeping American Music Alive

After hearing that Emory University had been awarded an Alzheimer's Foundation grant to explore the effect of music on patients, you have to wonder how even more beneficial playing a musical Instrument could be. Speaking with Maura Nicholson, the executive director of the Frank Hamilton School in Decatur. Founded by folk music pioneer Frank Hamilton ten years ago, the school is dedicated to making playing a music instrument available to anyone willing to work to learn. Frank is 91 now. He still lives in Decatur. And he still shows up to teach and play. He is the last living copyright holder to the classic "We Shall Overcome." Folk music sounds a common thread through American history, and through the lessons at the school and the periodic jam sessions, they are keeping it alive while bringing together musicians of all talent levels. www.frankhamiltonschool.org