Dr. James Leary, Folklore Professor Emeritus of the University of Wisconsin Madison, knows traditional music better than most. He grew up in a melting pot of cultures in central Wisconsin. His neighbors came from Poland, Czechoslovakia, Germany, Scotland, Norway and more. Each with their understanding of their traditions, be it food, clothing or music. Jim was surrounded with the sounds of each. But not just as independent presentations. When two cultures meet within a community, over time, sharing takes place… stories, foods, dance and music. From two, often come a third, a new tradition. Jim saw it happen in real time. His Seminal book: Folksongs of Another American documents what’s called Old-time music outside of Southern Appalachia. It makes for a great story. This interview is well worth the time to understand your own roots, as well as how traditions evolve.