Musician & Storyteller
Reconstruction Era string band music — history, folklore, and song woven into one.
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Biography
Lem began his career in graduate school as a guitarist and vocalist in Paradise Lost and Regained, a work created by Dr. Eva Jessey — the acclaimed choral director for George Gershwin's Porgy and Bess. Lem also appeared with Dr. Jessey in a CBS "Special Segment" and became a soloist in the Dr. Eva Jessey Choir before embarking on his career.
Drawing upon his academic experience and his background in contemporary music, Sheppard creates a unique performance style and a vibrant brand of traditional music. He moves seamlessly from music spanning the discovery of the spiritual to the jazz age, engaging audiences of all ages through modern takes on traditional music interspersed with folklore, storytelling, and history.
Audiences of all ages engage with Lem's modern take on traditional music, interspersed with folklore, storytelling, and history.
Current Program
In his latest concert series, Lem collates years of research into a sweeping musical journey through African American music during the Reconstruction Era.
Sheppard sings the history of the black string bands that once flourished across small towns throughout the country — their influence and impact on American music largely overlooked. Through storytelling and song, Lem brings these stories to life.
