L  o  n  e        S  t  a  r        H  i  s  t  o  r  y

Q: Is this program suitable for all grade levels?

A: The program is targeted to grades 3 through 7, and is especially suitable for students who will be studying, or have studied, Texas History.  Many schools bring multiple grade levels, and students of all ages enjoy the show.

Q: Is there a limit to the number of students, or grade levels, that can attend?

A: There is no limit; however, smaller audiences allow for a more interactive and orderly presentation.  If your audience will exceed 300, we encourage you to consider second or additional performances at the time of booking - these additional performances will be offered at half-price.

Q: How long does the performance last?

A: The performance is approximately 40 minutes in length.

Q: How do I book a performance at my school?

A: Simply send an email inquiry to

 or call (214) 354-1861.  If you have a particular month, week, or day in mind, let us know.  Once a date and time has been agreed upon, you will receive an invoice by email or fax.

Q: Should I contact Brian between the date of booking and the date of performance to make sure we're still on?

A: That is not necessary.  Brian is regarded as one of the most dependable performing artists in the industry.  He would cancel a performance only in the event of illness, accident, or other circumstances which would render him unable to travel or perform.  In such a case, you would be informed as far in advance as possible, and every effort would be made to reschedule the performance.

Q: What should I, and my school, do in preparation for Brian's performance?

A: Create a buzz with your students and let your excitement rub off on them: Play selected songs from Brian's CD The Eagle & The Snake: Songs Of The Texians in class (if you don't have the CD, let us know and we'll get you a copy).  Encourage them to visit Brian's web site.  Visit the Curriculum Guide section of this web site and create assignments and activities based on Brian's songs.  These activities will dramatically increase your students' enjoyment and involvement in this program.

Q: Is the performance always the same?

A: No.  The performance is not scripted or formalized in any way.  It is a free-flowing series of dialogs and songs that encourage students to embrace history and make their own discoveries.

Q: Can the students participate in the performance?

A: The first half of the performance is geared toward getting them thinking about history and historical events, while at the same time enjoying a musical performance.  As such, they are encouraged not to clap or sing along during the songs.  They are, of course, encouraged to applaud after each song.

During the second half of the show, they will be invited to clap and sing along to a series of more lighthearted tunes, including Brian's hit, "I've Been Everywhere (In Texas)".

Brian will also invite audience members to raise their hands and ask him any questions they might have regarding his songwriting, guitar playing, travels, CDs, the music business, his interweaving of music and history, or any other relevant topics.

Q: Will Brian offer CDs to sell at the performance?

A: Brian will have CDs available to sell, but only upon the school's approval.  An announcement may be made to students, either prior to or after Brian's performance, that CDs are available at the price of $15.00 each.  If orders come in during the days after Brian's performance, we will be happy to fill those orders by mail... just email or call us to make arrangements.

Q: Will Brian stay to sign autographs and/or talk with the students after his performance?

A: Only if such arrangements are agreed upon in advance.  Brian is honored to be asked to sign autographs and visit with students and faculty.  Unfortunately, his schedule does not always allow him to do so without being late for another engagement.

Q: What can my students be expected to gain from this program?

A: Music and lyrics work on an emotional level that textbook material cannot reach.  Different people assimilate different music in different ways.  Be sure to visit the Testimonials section of this web site to gain first-hand insight into how listeners are inspired by these songs.  While Once Upon A Time In Texas cannot be expected to turn your entire student body into straight-A Texas History students, there is no question that some students will respond positively to the material, and go on to develop a keener interest in the subject matter.  That is also evidenced by the number of schools Brian performs at one year that invite him back the next... and the next...

The program is also musically inspiring.  Brian is an intense and commanding, yet friendly and accessible performer, prompting students to ask thoughtful questions about songwriting, musicianship, and the music business.

Q: What should I, and my school, do after Brian's performance?

A: Encourage your students to purchase Brian's CD The Eagle & The Snake: Songs Of The Texians - the more they hear the material, the more they'll want to learn about Texas.  Point out areas in your curriculum that coincide with topics in Brian's songs.  Email and tell us how you and your students liked the show.  Also, we're always interested in hearing ideas on how we might improve the program.  Let other schools in your area know about us!