Le Ballet Dembaya, a West African drum and dance ensemble, will be performing at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge on Wednesday, June 22, for “Music in the Gardens,” featuring live music from different performers for three days this summer.
“Music in the Gardens” is from 11 to 11:45 a.m., with another show from 1 to 1:45 p.m., on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
“Dembaya” means “the dance of the family” in the Soussou language of Guinea – a tribute to their parents, elders, and ancestors – in their home. The group’s West African percussion is inspired by the sounds of Guinea, Mali, Senegal, and Ivory Coast and African American culture.
The performance is free with admission.
On Thursday, watch for Tres Souls, where LA’s beloved artists Rocio Mendoza, Roberto Carlos, and Jesus Martinez are joined by artist friends Ray Gudino and Ismael Pineda to serenade audiences with their special interpretations of “Bolero.” Tres Souls relive the vintage sounds and songs of the 1940s to the 1960s, stylized during the Golden Era of Mexican Cinema.
On Friday, Quarteto Nuevo merges western classical, eastern European folk, Latin and jazz. Winners of two South Arts Jazz Road Tours grants, the ensemble has composed new movements for its Jazz Road Suite celebrating each state they visit. Quarteto Nuevo travels a musical journey that begins with Erik Satie and Heitor Villa-Lobos, and takes you to Chick Corea and original compositions.
For more information, call (818) 949-4200 or visit www.descansogardens.org/event/
Please note that chairs, blankets, outside food, and picnics are not permitted.
Descanso Gardens are at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Cañada Flintridge.
