Young Africa Skills Center in Chitungwiza

What a pleasure it was to have a workshop with the youth at Chitungwiza's Young Africa Skills Center.  We talked about swing, 12/8 triplet rhythms, how the two grooves make you move; how to sing along to Prince's Alphabet St; and gave them a chance to improvise.  The kids were fantastic, inspiring, and the experience incredibly moving.  Here are some snapshots of our day.

HIFA-mania!

In the spirit of "Wally",  recognize anyone from NuGenerations in the Monomopata Crowne Plaza Hotel lobby ? :)

First day of activities...

Our work begins April 30, Thursday, with a workshop at the young Africa Skills Center (www.youngafrica.org) in the township of Chitungwiza, followed by a performance at the U.S. Ambassador's residence.  Here we go!  

Roots 'n' Music

It was a beautiful day in Harare, and the beautiful sounds and sights continue.  This one is courtesy of the fabulous Gangbe Brass Band from Benin.  So much of the music we have in the Americas have their roots here - it's truly ear-opening to hear & see it in person.  Enjoy!

Sights & Sounds in Harare, Zimbabwe

After 4 flights totaling 27 hours (whew), we are in Africa: Harare, Zimbabwe, to be exact!  In addition to the US Embassy events, we'll be performing at the Harare International Festival of the Arts (www.hifa.co.zw), now in its 10th year of bringing together artists from all over the world performing music including traditional music of Zimbabwe (& other African nations), Afro-pop, Afro-jazz, jazz, funk, and even classical opera & chamber music (I can hear it outside my hotel room right now!).  It's a beautiful day so we gotta get in it!  For your viewing/listening pleasure, check out the video clip from last night...

T-minus 4 days to Africa!

It's hard to believe we're leaving on Monday, April 27, for Africa.  Africa!  Zimbabwe, Namibia, Swaziland, and South Africa.  Have no idea what to expect, probably something overwhelming and transformative.  NuGenerations is setting out on the Rhythm Road!