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Music from the American
South
Eric and Suzy Thompson are virtuoso performers of regional music from
the American South, including old-time Appalachian ballads and breakdowns,
classic country blues, and Louisiana Cajun music. Using fiddles, guitars,
mandolin, and Cajun accordion, they show how European, African, and
French traditions have influenced American music. (January 8, 2005)
PHOTO:
Irene Young |
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Afro-Cuban Dance
The Olorun Ensemble pays homage to the African roots of Cuban folkloric
dance. The company's director, Susana Arenas (right), explains the
origin and cultural significance of each dance, many of which enact
stories of the Orishas - deities of the Lukumi tradition from West
Africa. (January 15, 2005) |
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The Social Evolution of Jazz
In honor of African-American Heritage Month, renowned jazz drummer Mr.
E. W. Wainwright and his ensemble, The African Roots of Jazz, take us
on a musical journey that traces African-American musical forms, such
as jazz, gospel, and spirituals, to their earliest beginnings in African
cultures. The program features instrumental music, songs, theater performance,
and audience participation. (February 12, 2005)
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Cultural Traditions of Ecuador
Wearing hand-embroidered traditional dress, Martha Stammer-Brankline
performs regional dances of Ecuador, including a chola
dance from her hometown of Cuenca, and explains the
cultural significance of each dance and costume. (February 19, 2005)
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Songs
of the Sea
To the accompaniment of fiddle, tin whistle, and guitar, Peter Kasin and
Richard Adrianowicz perform a selection of sea shanties that describe
the typical daily life of sailors in the days of wind-driven ships. Sung
in unison, shanties were team work songs that helped keep the rhythm of
monotonous shipboard chores and activities. (March 5, 2005)
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Celtic
Music
In celebration of St. Patrick' Day (March 17th), the musical
trio Distant Oaks (pictured at right) perform
a medley of Irish songs, in Gaelic and English, on traditional
instruments - the uillean bagpipes, the Celtic harp, bodhran
hand-drum - as well as stepdancing. (March 19, 2005)
PHOTO:
Irene Young
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Chinese
Stone Carving
Chinese artist Wang Lu Huan specializes in miniature, lifelike sculptures
of animals; his favorite depictions are insects and amphibians. From
hours of careful observation of the physical characteristics and behavior
of his subjects, he portrays each form in accurate detail. Mr. Lu Huan
demonstrates his carving techniques and unique style using pyrophyllite,
a rare and valuable metamorphic rock found mainly in Inner Mongolia.
(March 19, 2005)
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Jewish Klezmer Music
The Red Hot Chachkas perform klezmer music -- a genre of Jewish instrumental music originating in
Yiddish-speaking communities in Eastern Europe and popular at weddings and holiday celebrations.
The klezmer repertoire is a lively, foot-tapping combination of Hebrew melodies, Yiddish songs, and
Eastern European folk traditions. The Band includes unusual instruments, such as the tsimble, and
invites the audience to join them in familiar songs such as the tumbalaika. (April 2, 2005)
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Lithuanian
Straw-work
Alberta Astras and Mary Currier demonstrate the techniques of Lithuanian
straw-work, fashioning geometric shapes from flattened wheat shafts.
Many of the designs, such as lattice mobiles, stars, and snowflakes,
are customarily used as ornaments on the Lithuanian Christmas tree.
(April 30, 2005)
PHOTO:
Giedra Gustas |
| Alberta Astras and Mary Currier,
right, wearing traditional Lithuanian dress.
PHOTO:
June Anderson
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Music and Dance of the Philippines
Through narrative dances, poetry, and song, the Kulintang Dance Theater
brings to life the village customs and vibrant regalia of the Southern
Philippines. Dancing styles are varied, from subtle hand gestures to the
powerful trance dance of the warrior, and are performed to the complex
melodies of bronze gongs. (May 19, 2005)
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Chinese Vegetable Carving
In the hands of Chinese chef and culinary artist Jimmy Zhang, ordinary
vegetables and fruits are transformed into edible works of art. Carved
in the form of animals, flowers, birds or insects, these miniature
sculptures are used as a decorative food garnish or an elaborate table
centerpiece. (May 21, 2005)
PHOTO:
June Anderson |
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Textiles
from the Pacific Islands: Polynesian Barkcloth
Textiles made from barkcloth (tapa) are created throughout the Pacific
Islands and play an important role in the social life of island people.
As a prized commodity, tapa can serve as a ritual gift to a person of
status or can be made into garments for ceremonial occasions. Tapa-making
is an activity reserved for women, and the familiar sound of wooden mallets
pounding the raw fibers into cloth can be heard from early morning until
sunset throughout the Islands.
Two presentations of tapa cloth, from Tonga and from Hawaii,
will take place simultaneously, allowing visitors to compare
the techniques, tools, and regional motifs of two cultural
traditions. For example, Tongan tapa is a canvas for freehand
painted designs, whereas Hawaiian barkcloth uses a printing
method for applying dyes. Siu Tuita and members of the 'Otufelenite
Tongan Community of the Bay Area, demonstrate the process
of creating tapa (called ngatu in the Tongan language) using
hand-carved wooden beaters. They are joined by Kaleo DaSa
and the Kapa Hui group, presenting the Hawaiian version
of tapa (called kapa), made from the inner bark of the paper
mulberry tree. (May 21, 2005)
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Textiles from the
Pacific Islands: Hawaiian Featherwork
In ancient times, Hawaiians
excelled in the artistry of applied featherwork, fashioning capes and
helmets (reserved for male chiefs) and leis (worn by royal women). Herman
Tachera continues this legacy, creating colorful hatbands and leis from
pheasant, peacock, and dyed goose feathers. He is assisted by Mike Vieiera. (May 21, 2005)
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Japanese Origami
Learn about the cultural meaning of this traditional Japanese craft from
Vicky Mihara and other master origami artists while folding your own origami
figure to take home. (May 21, 2005)
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Aztec
Dances
In Pre-Hispanic times, Central Mexico was one of many cacao-growing
areas of Mesoamerica, and the Aztecs used bitter chocolate drinks
in many of their ritual ceremonies. To mark the opening of the Academy's
new exhibit Chocolate, Ernesto Hernandez Olmos and the Xaguia Gura
Ensemble perform Aztec Indian dances that pay homage to the ancient
Nahuatl-speaking cultures of Pre-Columbian Mexico. Wearing colorful
outfits, masks, and spectacular plumed headdresses inspired by the
feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl, the dancers move to the rhythm
of indigenous instruments such as ankle rattles, hollowed log drums,
conch shell trumpets, bamboo flutes, and clay whistles -- many designed
to imitate the sounds of nature. (June 11, 2005)
PHOTO:
June Anderson |
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Regional Varieties of Chocolate
Chocolatier Erin Solin discusses the cultivation, harvesting, fermentation,
and roasting of cacao beans, and how different treatments, as well as
climate and soil, can affect the ultimate taste of the chocolate. During
chocolate tastings, visitors will learn to identify the origin of some
cacao beans. (June 18, 2005)
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The Mayan Gift of Chocolate
In a program especially for kids, Zoe Harris focuses
on the role of chocolate in Mayan culture. You will
hear the story of how Two Wind Deer and his monkey
brought chocolate to his people, and learn about the
Cacao God and how to write the Mayan glyph for cacao,
as well as sing a chocolate chant in Spanish. You
can take home a coloring book about chocolate and
taste a delicious Mexican chocolate drink. (June 18, 2005)
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The History of Chocolate
Brad Kintzer, from Scharffen Berger Chocolate Company in
Berkeley, talks about chocolate's remarkable agricultural
and gastronomical history, from ancient Mexico to present-day
manufacturing. Brad will help you taste your way through
the chocolate-making process, from cacao beans to chocolate
bars, as you learn about the factors that influence the
quality of chocolate products. (June 18, 2005)
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From Cacao Bean to Chocolate Bar
Chocolatier Erin Solin discussing the refining of chocolate,
from the roasting and milling of the beans to the end product,
and how manufacturers' additives can affect quality and
taste. Visitors will sample different chocolates from around
the world, and take home recipes to try for themselves. (July 30, 2005)
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The Alchemy of Chocolate-Making
Frederick Schilling is the founder of Dagoba Chocolate in
Oregon - a company dedicated to rainforest and environmental
protection, fair trade practices, and organic cacao cultivation.
He will roast and grind the beans, make chocolate in a blender,
and hand out samples of roasted nibs (cacao bean pieces)
and freshly-made chocolate. (July 30, 2005)
PHOTO:
Dagoba Chocolate Company |
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Chocolate Singalong
Performing on acoustic guitar, José-Luis Orozco sings
a medley of Mexican songs about chocolate and its
origins in Mesoamerica. This program will appeal to
children of all ages -- and be prepared for a lot
of audience participation! (July 30, 2005)
PHOTO:
Arcoiris Records |
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Chocolate
for the Skin
Diane Gomes, of Lush Company in San Francisco, discusses the non-edible
uses of cocoa powder and cocoa butter as ingredients in skin-care
products such as cleansing face masks, massage bars, body lotions, and bubble
baths. Diane will demonstrate these aromatic, handmade cosmetics
and explain their anti-oxidant and mineral-rich qualities. (August
20, 2005)
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Cacao:
The Botanist's Perspective
What does cacao look like? Where does it grow? In his illustrated
talk, Dr. Frank Almeda presents the natural history and
ecological aspects of cacao. He covers the plant’s
geographic distribution and climatic zones, its domestication
and how the seeds are used by native peoples, and how cacao
was exploited once it reached Europe. (August 20, 2005)
PHOTO:
June Anderson |
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Xocolatl
in the Supermarket
To the Aztecs, xocolatl was the Food of the Gods and figured prominently
in ritual ceremonies, but was also part of the regular diet, often
combined with chili peppers. Continuing that culinary heritage,
an array of chocolate items are available today in local Mexican
markets. June Anderson discusses these products and how they are
used for preparing traditional fare, with samples for the audience
to taste. (August
20, 2005)
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Mexican
Serenades
El Trio del Puerto serenades the audience with musica
romantica - Mexican songs of love and nostalgia for the homeland.
Performing on guitars, the Trio includes regional songs from
throughout Mexico. (September 24, 2005)
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Bolivian Music
The Oscar Reynolds Trio excels in both modern and traditional
Bolivian music. Oscar is an accomplished composer; his innovative
interpretations retain the essence of Bolivian music while
moving in new directions. Performing on antara (pan
pipes) and guitar, Oscar is joined by Jose Luis Reynolds on
charango (a small stringed instrument) and Lalo Izquerdo
on cajón (a box-shaped drum). (September 24, 2005)
This program funded by a generous grant
from the Creative
Work Fund. |
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Mexican Migajón
Migajón is the Mexican folk art of miniature flowers fashioned
from bread dough. With the appearance of fine porcelain, these
life-like decorations are used for wedding bouquets, for azahares
(orange blossoms worn by the bride to denote purity) and for lazo
(a rosary-type creation that is placed around the bride and groom
during the wedding ceremony to symbolize their union of love).
Eva Dias demonstrates this exquisite art using white bread crumbs,
glue, glycerin, and acrylic paints. (September 24, 2005)
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A Harvest of Customs: Straw Art from Around the World
Throughout history, people in many cultures have used straw to create works of art.
In ancient times, a community's survival depended on a bountiful harvest, and amulets made of straw
were used in seasonal rituals, functioning as good luck charms to ensure a plentiful crop in the coming year.
Some were known as "corn dollies" in which the Spirit of the Corn resided. Additionally, heart-shaped
"love knots" were used in courtship, and fan-shaped "house blessings" were given to new brides to bless
their new home. Straw figures were fashioned in a variety of shapes and designs, and regional styles
developed in countries throughout northern Europe.
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Join us for a day of straw art presentations as we explore the social customs and folk beliefs associated
with wheat, rye and other grains. Sponsored by the American Museum of Straw Art in Long Beach, the program
brings together numerous artisans who will demonstrate techniques such as weaving, plaiting, and wrapping,
representing traditions from Sweden, Scotland, Wales, Germany, Lithuania, and Ireland. Examples from the
Museum's straw art collections will also be on display. (October 22, 2005)
PHOTO:
J. Michael |
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Dia
de los Muertos (November 5, 2005)
Many Central American countries celebrate Dia de los Muertos
(Day of the Dead) on November 1st. It is a time to remember and
honor deceased relatives, with visits to the cemeteries and the
making of home altars. The Academy presents a day of programs
that highlight Day of the Dead customs.
Acrylic
painting by Ernesto Hernandez Olmos
Pan de Muerto
Pan de muerto is a traditional bread baked especially for
Day of the Dead in Mexico. Often, the bread is formed into skull
and skeleton shapes and placed on home altars (called ofrendas)
to welcome back the spirits of deceased family members. Come and
sample pan de muerto, served with Mexican hot chocolate.
(November 5, 2005)
Pre-Columbian
Dance
Wearing colorful feathered headdresses and ceremonial regalia,
the Grupo Xaguia ensemble performs ancient Pre-Hispanic dances
associated with death in Aztec times. (November 5, 2005)
Offerings
to the Dead
Members of the audience will participate in the construction of
a typical Day of the Dead altar (ofrenda). Help us assemble
the altar with customary foods and offerings, including the traditional
zempoalxochitl flowers -- marigolds known in Mexico as
"flowers of the dead." (November 5, 2005)
Mascaras
Mexican artist Ruben Guzman will explain the art of papel picado
(paper-cutting) -- a form of decoration popular for Day of the
Dead festivities and other Mexican observances. Make your own
papel picado mask to take home. Supplies provided. (November
5, 2005)
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Plains
Indian Flutes
Jim Eagle Heart performs traditional flute music including
love songs, once an important part of courting rituals.
According to legend, the flute has the power of attraction
and can enhance a young man's chances of success.
(1.00 pm, Academy classroom)
Eagle Heart will also demonstrate the making of flutes.
He designs and hand-carves several types of flute from cedar
wood, such as the double eagle flute with two barrels that
are played simultaneously, one acting as a drone. Each instrument
is a work of art, adorned with turquoise inlay and symbolic
animal fetishes.
(November 19, 2005) |
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Quechua Indian
Music
The Karumanta Ensemble performs music from the Bolivian altiplano.
Their repertoire features Afro-Andean music - the legacy of African
slaves brought to the Lake Titicaca region in the seventeenth
century to work in the gold and silver mines. African and Quechua
rhythms merged, producing new hybrid forms.
(November 19, 2005)
This program funded by
a generous grant from the Creative
Work Fund.
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California Indian Traditions
For 40 years, Julia Parker (Kashaya Pomo), right, has worked
as a cultural interpreter of California Indian traditions
in Yosemite National Park. Julia and her daughter, Lucy
Parker, will demonstrate California Indian basketry techniques
and other art forms created from natural materials.
PHOTO:
Roy Santos
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Greek and Armenian Music
In a program entitled From Mt. Olympus to Mt. Ararat,
the Koroyar Ensemble performs music from the eastern Mediterranean
region, including lyrical love songs and ancient dance melodies,
to the rhythm of the dumbeg (goblet-shaped hand-drum) and the
daouli (double-headed drum).
(December 3, 2005)
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