On Saturday, April 8th, from 1:00-5:00 PM, New England artists representing a diverse range of cultural backgrounds and musical styles will gather in Woonsocket for the “2nd Annual Drums & Music of the Americas” to share their traditions through musical performance. The event will take place at the former Mulvey’s building at 40 South Main Street in Woonsocket, RI. The event is free and open to the public.
Event host Daryl Black Eagle Jamieson says he views drumming as a common element across cultures, and wanted to bring these cultures together for a celebration of their traditions. Jamieson has said his goal is to create “the most awesome multicultural music event ever in Woonsocket.”
Jamieson is a member of the Eastern Medicine Singers, an Algonquin drum group that has held several events in Rhode Island, including a Drum Circle in Woonsocket last November and their annual Powwow, which is to be held in River Island Arts Park this May. The Eastern Medicine Singers recently returned from Austin, TX, where they performed as part of the South by Southwest music festival.
While Jamieson and his group represent an American Indian background, other performers at the April 8th event will represent cultures including African, Celtic, West Indian, and Latin, among others.
Performances will include both solo sets and collaborations between artists. One part of the day’s schedule Jamieson is particularly excited about is the opening performance, in which African Velekete drummers and the Eastern Medicine Singers will provide the soundtrack for a “challenge” between dancers in traditional warrior garb.
Daryl Black Eagle Jamieson and The Eastern Medicine Singers
“It’s going to blow people’s minds,” says Jamieson.
The event will also feature a variety of vendors selling traditional crafts and food.
Having recently redeveloped the event space at 40 South Main Street, NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley is sponsoring this event through its Creative Placemaking Initiative funded by LISC Rhode Island. The event space will be opening for public rental later this spring, and this musical celebration is a part of a series of events by NWBRV to activate the space. The event is free attend and all ages are welcome.
“We are excited to bring these artists to Woonsocket for this wonderful, free event,” says Tamara Burman of NWBRV, who manages the space at 40 South Main Street. “It’s going to be a delightful cultural experience.”
