Jean René Balekita offers community classes at C4A

Jean René Balekita is offering community classes at C4A: Community Center for the Arts in downtown Urbana. On Thursdays from 7-8p Balekita leads an African Drumming Circle. On Tuesdays from 7-8:30p Balekita leads the Sikama Congolese-American Choir. Brief descriptions are listed below. Please visit http://c-4a.org/ for more information.

African Drumming Circle (February 6 to April 30, 2020)

C4A's African music specialist, Jean René Balekita, will teach drumming repertoire from central and Western Africa, giving instruction in synchronized interlocking drum patterns and djembe drumming techniques. Suitable for beginning and experienced drummers. Bring your own drum, or use one at C4A. (Thanks to the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois, for funding to purchase C4A's beautiful djembes!)

Sikama Congolese-American Choir (February 11 - May 5, 2020)

Enjoy a rare musical opportunity with Sikama Choir, led by C4A’s African music specialist, Jean René Balekita! All are welcome, regardless of musical training. Repertoire will include traditional and popular songs from Africa, sung in English, French, Lingala, and other languages. Songs will be taught both “by ear” and using sheet music, so everyone’s music-learning preference will be accommodated.