Go-Go Rhythms Exposed is a percussive education program that explores the instruments used in DC’s homegrown sound of Go-Go. These instruments traveled to our region from their homes throughout the continent of Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America. This workshop uncovers the history and cultural practices which created these instruments and their musical traditions.
Attendees will have hands-on sessions playing as an ensemble while learning the specific use of each instrument in a traditional Go-Go band. Participants will also learn a variety of percussive styles from The Republic of The Congo, Senegal, Mali, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Haiti, and more. The series will culminate with an open family jam where participants can play together as a full ensemble for the community.
Meet Your Teaching Artist
Dante' Pope
Dante' uses his roots based in the church to uplift and continue the legacy of Black American Music. His debut EP, ‘After Five Music,’ is a nod to his roots from Chicago based in blues, gospel, jazz and soul music. Since it’s release Dante' was selected as the Strathmore Artist in Residence Program, performed his debut at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, was showcased at the DC Jazz Festival and the notable Rockwood Music Hall in New York City.
Prior to his solo career, Dante' was the drummer and music director for soul artist and lyricist Raheem Devaugh and Wes Felton, known as The Crossrhodes. Their NPR Tiny Desk show was one of the highlights of his during time touring nationally with The Crossrhodes. Dante’ is a GRAMMY Board member in the Washington, DC Chapter and was featured on the 2019 GRAMMY-nominated album called, ‘Black Cowboys.’ The project, a collaboration with Smithsonian Folkways and GRAMMY award-winning artist Dom Flemons, co-founder of the group, the Carolina Chocolate drops.