Archives

Folk Music, Ear Training & Musical Games

Musiquita is a bilingual (English/Spanish) interactive educational music experience made of the wife/husband duo features Blanca Cecilia González (violin/voice/uke/percussion) and Jesse Elder (piano/vocals/percussion/melodica). In this professional learning multilingual Spanish/English speaking musicians  Blanca Cecila Gonzalez (violin, uke, percussion) & Jesse Elder (piano, vocals, percussion & melodica) will guide teachers in a variety of general music methodologies […]

The Fundamentals of Puerto Rican Folkloric Music: la Bomba y la Plena

This workshop, taught in both Spanish and English, provides educators with a fundamental understanding of Afro-Puerto Rican dance and drum culture through the rich musical heritage of Bomba y Plena. Educators will engage with Bomba y Plena’s history and culture and gain insight into how it is used to nourish resistance, healing, and community celebrations. […]

Shakespeare in Song

Text from Shakespeare’s masterpieces are transformed into fresh and dynamic songs that have audiences singing along in sheer delight! Students will have an interactive and engaging experience that brings music & poetry together in a unique way. Award-winning composer/pianist Daniel Kelly and a powerhouse jazz vocalist will engage students as they explore the writings of […]

The Frederick Douglass Writing Club

Frederick Douglass Writing Club brings history to life and ignites students’ creativity. Baba Bomani opens by introducing himself and his community through music, setting an energetic tone. He then dives into the remarkable story of Frederick Douglass, emphasizing how he “stole” his education and used literacy to escape slavery. Baba Bomani connects Douglass’ legacy to […]

Cajón (box drums): Heartbeat of Africa in Peru and The Americas Workshop

This program is designed for participants to experience the rhythmical magic of the cajón (box drum) and become acquainted with its fascinating history. Participants will learn to play the most popular rhythms of Afro-Peruvian music using the cajón as well as other typical percussion instruments of Afro-Peruvian music, like the quijada (jawbone) and the cajita […]

B.A.R.S.: The Writing Process Through Rap

Students are taken on a fun, multimedia trip through the world of creative writing where they discuss the writing process (pre-writing, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing). Students will rap along to original, professionally released music created by Bomani, as well as songs highlighting his tips on how to be a better creative writer. There will […]

Musiquita

Musiquita is a bilingual (English/Spanish) interactive educational music experience, appropriate for children of all ages and backgrounds, as well as kids at heart. The wife/husband duo features Blanca Cecilia González (violin/voice/uke/percussion) and Jesse Elder (piano/vocals/percussion/melodica). They perform originals, Latin Folk music, classical, jazz, pop, children’s classics and so much more! They have a play based […]

And Now I See: Race, Racism & American Music

An entertaining, informative, and eye-opening show that celebrates the rich tapestry of African American music, from Spirituals, Gospel, and Jazz to Soul, Hip-Hop, and R&B. Students will gain insight into the origins, evolution, and cultural significance of each genre, tracing their influences through time. The show addresses the impact of racism on musical styles and […]