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 MFA Kera and Mike RussellThe Black Heritage band, headed by guitarist/vocalist Mike Russell and vocalist MFA Kera performed featuring premiere percussionist Ricky Olongo in Berlin. The concert was a celebration of music from Madagascar, Kera's native country. There is a Madagascar community in Berlin and it was a joy to play this amazing music with a great band.
This time of year there is more daylight than night and June 21st is the longest day of the year. Sunset is about 11:00 p.m. or 23.00 hr. As in most countries, May marks the wind down of the academic year for students and their instructors. Finnish students are well schooled and most begin their musical studies as young children. In fact, FYI, parents and their pre-kindergarten age children attend classes together at music institutes and conservatories. My workshop students were a joy to spend time with, both in and outside of the classroom.They displayed a passion for learning and worked very hard to actualize the jazz concepts. An impressive feature was that they showed humility. These young musicians understand that jazz is the cultural music of another country and to learn the music involves learning about its cultural origin. Their performances were exceptional and it was a pleasure to share the stage with them. Congratulations to all my students. So very well done. |
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