Black History Music Celebration Saturday At Manalapan Library

MANALAPAN, NJ — A unique and popular event will return this Saturday, Feb. 3 to the Monmouth County Library main branch in Manalapan.

The Manalapan Arts Council is presenting a live musical presentation of African-American music, history and culture from noon - 3 p.m. at the library. This event is open to all and totally free; but they will close the doors once the room hits capacity (about 200 people). There will be live musicians performing and explaining the evolution of American black music culture through the decades, starting with African drumming and spirituals to modern-day rap and reggae.

Children may be invited to participate in the drumming and other segments. This is being presented in honor of Black History Month and organized and funded by the Manalapan Arts Council.

The event will be held on Saturday, February 3 at Noon at the Monmouth County Library Headquarters, 125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, N.J. Historian Thelma Armstrong will narrate the event taking the audience through an historical timeline accented by music. Performances include music and song from African drums to spirituals and from Jazz to R&B and Reggae.

Artists sharing their talent include African Drummer Tyrone Laws, Steel Drums by Highlite Vibes (reggae, soca and calypso), Community Refuge Church Gospel Choir and R&B band Crown Jules featuring Jules Drucker and Lenny Harold. Special guest, Opera and Classical singer Courteney Wilds (aka The Wild Diva) will also perform.

Doors open at 12 noon and the performance begins at 1:00 pm. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For questions contact Monmouth County Library Headquarters Reference Staff at: 732-431- 7220 x7222