Siama's Congo Roots
Congolese guitarman Siama toured the world and recorded hundreds of radio hits from 1971-95. Now based in Minneapolis, his music combines elements of traditional Congolese music and sounds from East African dance floors and he adds familiar elements from Delta Blues and even reggae and calypso. He can tailor his program for any age group. He enlisted songwriter Dallas Johnson to make the programs engaging and interactive. Together, they tell Siama?s stories about growing up in rural Congo and everyone is encouraged to play African hand percussion and to sing along.
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Attendees will have enhanced knowledge and understanding of the topic. Attendees will have a positive experience at the library. After seeing this program, people will want to return to the library for future programs. Patrons and librarians will express that vetted programs are of high quality. Surveys will be handed out following events.
There were glowing comments all throughout the surveys. Everyone agreed that they learned something new, and that the performance was professional. People would return to the library for more experiences like this one. When asked what they liked best about the program, several responses were, "(It) introduces children to African culture and different music", "Upbeat/teaching along with interesting music, fun people - happy and engaging!" and "I learned a lot about what it takes to travel there and the importance of music in the Congo."
Faribault: Buckham Memorial Library, Hokah Public Library, LaCrescent Public Library