The Melodious Faithful: Music at the House of David

About the Event

During the first half of the twentieth century the musicians of Michigan’s Israelite House of David entertained the public and helped make famous their already well-known religious commune. In addition to a mode of individual, communal and religious expression, music at the House of David was a serious commercial enterprise. For over fifty years their professional touring bands—orchestras, marching bands, choral groups, string bands, jazz ensembles and eventually swing bands—entertained visitors to the House of David’s amusement park in Benton Harbor and played to packed audiences in concert halls and vaudeville theaters across America.

Music was a part of everyday life for Christian Israelites at the colony, central to social functions and integral to their modes of worship. Almost every Israelite was involved in some form of musical expression. Adults played in men’s bands, women’s bands, or in mixed ensembles. Children played in children’s bands. Israelites sang together in duos, trios, quartets, and in larger choral groups. Their music reflected their heritage and faith as well the contemporary styles and tastes of mid-20th Century America. Some members also made and sold musical instruments while others taught music to generations of gentiles (non-members) in surrounding communities. 

Brian D. Carroll received his doctorate in American history from the University of Connecticut. He is currently the Historian & Archivist for the Israelite House of David in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Originally from New England, Brian has worked in higher education, museums, and public history for more than twenty-five years.  Brian has published numerous articles and book reviews in scholarly journals as well as popular history magazines. In addition, he designs museum exhibitions and gives frequent presentations at conferences and museums.  He is the recipient of dozens of prestigious fellowships and awards.