Connie Converse was a visionary songwriter, composer, and activist involved in many forward-thinking ideas long before they became mainstream. Her work spanned areas like independent music, anti-fascism, anti-racism, conflict resolution, and alternative education. Despite her creativity and intellect, Converse struggled with invisibility and the need for recognition. In 1974, feeling unacknowledged, she left notes for loved ones and disappeared, never to be seen again. However, her legacy remains through an extensive archive of her music, writings, and personal items, which is the foundation for Howard Fishman’s book about her life and work.
Howard Fishman regularly contributes to The New Yorker, writing about various cultural topics. His work has also appeared in major publications like The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and The Washington Post. He has written a play that was a New York Times “Critics Pick” and has toured internationally as a songwriter and bandleader for over 20 years, releasing 11 albums. Fishman produced the album Connie’s Piano Songs, featuring the work of Connie Converse. He is based in Brooklyn, NY.
This event, which will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 12:45 p.m. – 2 p.m. (Fuller 410), is open to the entire University of Hartford community. We encourage everyone with an interest in music history to join us at the Hartt Music History Forum.
