The Pearl River County Historical Society will meet on Friday, April 12, at 5:30 p.m. in Holland Hall at the Margaret Reed Crosby Memorial Library.

The session will begin with a potluck where members are encouraged to bring a dish to share. A brief business meeting will follow.

The highlight of the meeting will be a unique musical program titled ‘Accoutrements and Aspirations: Songs from the American Frontier,’ presented by the esteemed guest speaker, Ms. Laura Semilian. As a soprano and PMHS alumna, she will delve into the rich musical traditions of the American Frontier, offering her unique interpretations of songs that were popular during that era.

Through her presentation, Ms. Semilian aims to provide us with a deeper understanding of the historical context of these songs. From the journey along wagon roads to the mysteries of cypress swamps, these songs are a testament to our rich cultural heritage. With her soprano voice and accompaniment on the harmonium, a popular instrument from the Victorian Era, Ms. Semilian will transport us to a bygone era with her renditions of this period’s music.

As an accomplished musician and historian with graduate degrees in both fields, Semilian has received recognition for her themed musical programs, which she has shared with audiences nationwide. Her expertise extends to composing original pieces, some of which have been featured in independent films.