Wed 3/4 @ 7PM
If the U.S. had Living National Treasures, the way Japan does, Kent’s Halim el-Dabh would certainly quality. The Kent State University professor emeritus is a composer/keyboard player/percussionist who was among the pioneers of classical electronic music starting way back in the 1940s. He’s known for the broad reach and deep dive into the music of many world cultures.
Egyptian-born and raised, he’s made Kent his home for nearly half his life, which has been long. Each year, he and Standing Rock Cultural Arts invite people to help him celebrate his birthday, such as his 4,094th coming up. OK, subtract 4,000 years and you’ll find his real age.
El-Dabh and Ron Slabe and the Kent African Drum Community will premier new music of his “Works for Kalimba and Electronics.”
“Bring instruments, beverages and good vibrations to help celebrate the achievements of this incredibly Creative Spirit in our community!,” says the press release. “Bring your drum and dancing shoes! Feel free to bring a covered dish! All are welcome!”
It takes place at the North Water Street Gallery. Admission is free.
Photo by Gary Harwood