https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog daily 0.75 2025-11-20 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/montreal-in-review-2025 monthly 0.5 2025-11-20 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/we-went-to-panama monthly 0.5 2023-12-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1f8d8fee-a031-4f7d-af44-f6bcf1e83f74/20231108_180322.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! - A Taste of Panama One of the best ways to learn about a culture is through food. And boy did we have our share of it! The tour included breakfast and lunch as part of our food walking tour of the Santa Ana neighborhood that abuts Casco Viejo, the historic center. Also included were two additional lunches, and three dinners (including a welcome and farewell dinner). And there were plenty of opportunities for folks to explore the food scene on their own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704060447155-XBR9TGMLQMBWU0V5O7JI/20231107_104415.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704060459784-O2WJLBU4VFBL6XMKG71L/20231108_180322.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704060434493-4C0876Z0XNT6DA49HLSG/2.png Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704060436672-866EWX76L0QCEW8PRH7M/1.png Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704060447350-7Y7OOAGNCCM3BFRQUGU3/3.png Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061465529-M1462W0IJKK4SE6MTQ9P/20231109_110417.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704060458055-89D3MZBYME06D0BOQ5EM/20231109_122518.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061482504-W1TLFN1Q5ESRX5YLNZYX/20231109_202227.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061495698-KKK9LQA6LEW20OQCRACS/IMG-20231114-WA0013.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061498706-YQ1LWFHC76204WSJA4TG/IMG-20231114-WA0007.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061735758-R8XY850YFDTVARIQXTL4/DSC00792%281%29.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061488466-5TK6TKCL6B1WJPNEKHGC/20231113_192405.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/4f956c5c-fdca-44fe-9d20-62357c8ba529/Panama+Canal+Group.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! - The Sights: Panama Canal — San Lorenzo National Park The Panama Canal was definitely a highlight of the trip. We did a full-day tour that began with a boat tour of Gatun Lake, where we experienced an up-close look at the local flora and fauna. Afterwards we headed to the Agua Clara Locks, the most recent addition to the Panama Canal, before heading to the San Lorenzo National Park, where we had simple, but delightfully tasty lunch, and an amazing tour of the fort. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061608586-330JJ9QXJ0LTED0V8M3L/IMG-20231127-WA0001.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061167136-HHINTJW0IRUKAPUTVYA1/DSC00808.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061168407-2ORENVRRKROA7VVEIROC/DSC00810.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704060652770-V0ZCG9ZOS3Z8MRWVIAHP/Panama+Canal+Boat.png Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061349158-NGCSW9OB36EST700BSCY/20231110_122450.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/d133fab3-43c7-4747-8fd4-5a59c5ad0506/Isla+Mamey.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! - The Sights: Portobelo — Isla Mamey Who doesn’t love a good beach day? We sure do! Yeah, but that’s not what we got. Despite having beautiful weather for every other day of our tour, it decided to rain on our beach day. And not just a quick shower, but heavy, downpours! Despite this, the weather cleared up enough for us to enjoy the warm waters surrounding Isla Mamey, with some including it as one of the highlights of the trip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062616930-P2S5N03LTFKZHSZWMKBS/20231112_134714.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061536593-UR3RHXB3ZFX4RVTBWLQ8/20231112_134717.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061540218-HOU2BKJ53FQPFKTG12CI/20231112_091033.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704061544036-1QFWRUBZMYJ5H81FZTTT/20231112_091009.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062475588-MT9X6O1LO4TEDTWS2351/20231112_161813.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062467051-3OR5MUYFAF1E7HTHU684/20231112_161337.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062468523-DZ3K4VFDAUP0QLF8NK5S/20231112_161352.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062476908-3JWFE2Y7CFLYWDC8IJJC/20231112_161914.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/e7c284c0-7912-436c-86c3-f9a8d38f4758/Spanish+Reggae+Museum.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! - The Sounds: El Museo del Reggae en Español You all know that we at My People Tell Stories love our music. So, we took some time to explore El Museo del Reggae en Español, a brand-spanking new museum — and the only one of its kind — that is devoted to Spanish Reggae and its off-shoot, reggaetón. If you didn’t know, Panama is the birthplace of “Spanish Reggae.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062975961-MXXBRCRCBS7ZAWURV09L/20231113_104315.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062976161-E1VT0SII6YGJ0SZ36FGO/20231113_111342.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704063137911-Z6QJ1JWSUZTPWSMMEAO6/20231113_111123.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062983140-FS10F2GYCDP7CHTSG500/20231113_114846.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1704062983198-VR4Y4NRN9E5A4H6UIA1C/20231113_113543.jpg Blog - We Went To Panamá! https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/the-whys monthly 0.5 2025-10-22 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/when-theory-meets-spirit monthly 0.5 2023-09-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/a1d1f2b2-1b54-4449-b97b-308fc5b8352e/Lord+Kitchener.jpg Blog - when theory meets Spirit - Make it stand out Lord Kitchener https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/3a34245a-608f-4023-8576-fdab7a957c85/Steelpan+Arrangers.jpg Blog - when theory meets Spirit - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/11056667-6319-47fd-a51f-73b88698a2d9/Jit+Samaroo.jpg Blog - when theory meets Spirit - Make it stand out Jit Samaroo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/e82e6579-8623-4d6c-8e38-b20baf07eef1/Peter+Minshall.jpg Blog - when theory meets Spirit - Make it stand out Peter Minshall https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/let-me-preface-this-by-saying monthly 0.5 2023-09-20 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/tribute-to-denyse-plummer-happy-independence-day-trinidad-amp-tobago monthly 0.5 2023-08-31 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/style-and-vibes-podcast monthly 0.5 2023-08-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/40ebd0b5-0cbe-4615-aba8-e4a0df19592c/SV+Podcast+Danielle+Brown+IG+Pink+Square.jpg Blog - Style & Vibes Join the conversation. Click the button below to hear the podcast. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/an-immigrant-in-my-own-land monthly 0.5 2023-06-26 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/of-god-ghosts-and-obeah monthly 0.5 2023-06-20 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/strictly-facts-podcast monthly 0.5 2023-08-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/05a30431-4f1d-4d9d-9032-921f7e7828cb/Podcast%282%29.png Blog - Strictly Facts: A Guide to Caribbean History and Culture Join the conversation. Click the button below to hear the podcast. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/carry-on-friends-the-caribbean-american-experience monthly 0.5 2023-06-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/46109611-5bc2-4451-9e10-47bbd1258540/COF+Danielle+Brown.png Blog - Carry On Friends: The Caribbean American Experience Join the conversation. Click the button below to hear the podcast. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/the-school-of-ma monthly 0.5 2023-06-12 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/one-family-east-flatbush monthly 0.5 2023-06-06 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/love-in-the-cemetery monthly 0.5 2021-10-29 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/parang-is-emmy-nominated monthly 0.5 2021-07-02 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/changing-the-tune monthly 0.5 2021-05-19 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/juneteenth monthly 0.5 2020-06-19 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/dont-misstate-their-names monthly 0.5 2020-06-15 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/blog/open-letter monthly 0.5 2025-05-04 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/zaizhongguo daily 0.75 2026-02-24 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/zaizhongguo/black-woman-in-china monthly 0.5 2026-02-24 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/zaizhongguo/365-days-of-chinese monthly 0.5 2025-06-06 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/zaizhongguo/why-chinese monthly 0.5 2025-06-06 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/zaizhongguo/thebeginning monthly 0.5 2025-06-06 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/our-team daily 0.75 2025-03-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1582907360183-ZXI7G8HTQNS4MU75SUMY/Danielle+Brown+Hi-Res+Photo+1.jpeg Our Team - Danielle Brown, Ph.D. Tobias Keene, D.D.S. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Tobias Keene brings a bit of unabashed Southern hospitality to all his patients. He moved to Washington, D.C. over thirty years ago as a freshman at Ivy College. Right after graduation, he attended World University’s School of Dentistry. Before opening Keene Dental in 1994, he worked for free clinics and some of the finest practices in the District. He is part of the 123 Dental Association and stays up-to-date on the latest dental discoveries. When not striving to keep his patients happy and healthy, he’s enjoys hiking with his family in Rock Creek Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1583013522775-PLT28U2NXPW6F89SHEKQ/Goussy+Ce%CC%81lestin.png Our Team - Goussy Célestin Music & Dance Instructor, Caribbean Music Pedagogy Workshop Goussy is a dancer, pianist, composer, teacher, and vocalist who has performed for the last two decades for audiences locally, nationally and in Cuba, England, Haiti, Wales, and Japan. She is a faculty member for the Middle School Jazz Academy and WeBop programs at Jazz at Lincoln Center. She is also a member of Retumba, an all-female music and dance ensemble dedicated to the afro-diaspora cultures in the Caribbean and Latin America. Goussy's current mission is integrating all of her disciplines in her project, Ayiti Brass, incorporating elements of traditional Haitian folklore and New Orleans street beat. Goussy is also a proud mom to two sons, who give her a bigger workout than all her dancing and traveling combined! Contact Goussy at: www.goussycelestin.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1583013547687-XIGFL5NKUGRETWM0KHK4/Hansell+E.png Our Team - Hansell Echualaibode Dance Instructor, Caribbean Music Pedagogy Workshop Hansell Echualaibode grew up in Havana, Cuba. For more than five years he studied at the Conjunto Folklórico Nacional de Cuba, where he studied Yoruba, Palo, Abakua, Cha Cha Cha, Mambo, and Son. Former principal dancer for the Compañía de Danzas Tradicionales de Cuba JJ for over ten years, Hansell proudly brings his heritage and dance experience to his students around the world. Connect with Hansell Echualaibode on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Elegguaochanla. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1583013567050-EZWP6VH8G4U771LSQK9J/2020+CMPW+Instructor.png Our Team - Michael Manswell Dance Instructor, Caribbean Music Pedagogy Workshop Michael Manswell is an artistic director, teaching artist, choreographer, and singer who began his performance life as a storyteller at arts festivals in his native Trinidad & Tobago, where he won many prizes and awards. Michael studied music at St Mary’s College (Trinidad) with Lindy-Anne Bodden-Ritch and at Brooklyn College (CUNY) with Tom Cultice. As a singer, he has toured Europe, the UK, and the Caribbean and has performed as a soloist in many productions of opera and oratorio. Michael’s dance training includes study with Dr. Eugene Joseph at the Trinidad Dance Theater (TDT) , where he trained in Modern, Ballet, Jazz, Ballroom, and Folkloric styles. In addition, he worked with Geoffrey Holder on “Dougla II” and “La Valse des Bakas” for TDT and toured with the company in the USA and the Caribbean. A prolific choreographer, Michael has created several works currently in the repertoire of Something Positive Inc, the performing company he now directs. The company has performed internationally in such places as Morocco, the Ivory Coast, Costa Rica, Belize and Trinidad & Tobago. An avid folklorist and an Orisha devotee in the Yoruba religion, Michael presents lectures and workshops in dance, music, and traditional religious practice; he works closely with the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI) and the Interfaith Center. One of “Brooklyn’s Black Men of Distinction 2000” and one of “Brooklyn’s Black Dance Kings (2010),” Michael is currently an Adjunct Professor of Dance at Lehman College (CUNY) and teaches for Something Positive Inc., Purelements An Evolution in Dance, CCCADI, and E.M Techniques. Contact Michael Manswell at www.somethingpositiveinc.org. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1648314653961-LGJ8M3AYFU46RNMPWNJW/Mariang%252BValdes.jpg Our Team - Mariang Valdés Music Instructor, Caribbean Music Pedagogy Workshop Mariang Valdés was born in Havana, Cuba. A graduate of the Havana Amadeo Roldan Music Conservatory, Mariang is a choir director, pianist, and teacher. As a professional musician, she has worked with the Canela Group, Omara Portuondo, Yoshiro, Orquesta De La Luz, Orquesta Caribbean Breeze, Amaury Gutierrez, David Torrens, Denisse D’ Kalaff, Daniela Castro, YeraSon Orquesta Charanga, and The Feeling Messengers. Mariang has worked in several countries including Cuba, Panama, Brazil, Japan, Germany, Martinique, Mexico, the United States, and the Grand Cayman Islands. In addition to her work performing with various groups, Mariang has worked as a pianist and organist, previously at Park and Trinity Methodist Church, and currently at the United Methodist Church of Linden. As an educator, she has worked in a wide variety of schools, including Montessori and Catholic schools, as well as institutions with highly progressive programs. Mariang teaches in New York City, at Casa Feliz, and previously worked at La Escuelita Dual Language Preschool. She also teaches Orff—keyboard and recorder—in New Jersey at HoLa Hoboken Spanish Immersion. Mariang brings music education to schools in an exciting and fun way. She has a CD and show for children called Jugaticantando, where she sings, dances, and interacts with parents and children. Currently, Mariang is working on her new CD, Canta, rie, baila y juega con Mariang. Contact Mariang at: marianglop69@gmail.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1648314873785-2M2GIFKEJQ4MPAPVAEH8/Miguelo+Valdes.jpg Our Team - Miguel Valdés (Miguelo) Percussion & Voice Instructor, Caribbean Music Pedagogy Workshop Born in the Havana province of Cuba, Miguel Valdés comes from a highly musical family, which includes his father, one of the top percussionists of the esteemed Conjunto Folklórico Nacional de Cuba. Valdés graduated from the Havana National School of Art Instructors (ENIA). After extensive training, he soon found himself with a flourishing career, performing across genres and throughout Cuba with several great musicians, including Richard Egues, Tropicana, and La Ley. Valdés has collaborated with many talented musicians and groups, including Orquesta Filarmónica de Mexico, Gonzalo Romeu, Grupo Bandula, Elvis Crespo, Celia Cruz, Albita Rodriguez, Lena Burke, Emmanuel, Natalia Jimenez, Yomira John, Dennis D’ Kalaff, Ricardo Montaner, Miky Tavera, and Yuri. In addition, he toured and worked regularly with Juan De Marcos’ Afro-Cuban All Stars (Buena Vista). In 2010, Valdés left Mexico to come to the US where he now resides permanently. Since his arrival, he has collaborated with many American and Latin artists like the McCoy Tyner All Stars, Francisco Mela, Rachel Ferrer, Tony Perez, Kambalache, Steve Turre, Matt Dillon, Fellove, Patato Valdés, Elio Villafranca, Mac Gollehon, Vince Herring, Dion Person, Sexteto NY, Itai Kriss, Abdou M’boup, Alex Matos, Nachito Herrera, Michele Rosewoman & New Yor-Uba, Los Hacheros, Cotton Club Big Band, Willy Chirino, Sister Sledge-Debbie Sledge, Frank Owens, Ty Stephens, John Faddis, Terell Stafford, and Chucho Valdés and Jazz Batá 2. Valdés teaches Afro-Cuban music at Barnard College in New York City. He has four CDs and has recorded with more than forty artists. His latest CD, Lovely is broadcast on all digital platforms. Contact Miguelo at: www.miguelovaldes.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1650513785342-C3G4E5DQ4AFTQD8IJT5J/Summer+2022+CMPW%286%29.png Our Team - Kimani Bishop Music Instructor, Caribbean Music Pedagogy Workshop Kimani Bishop was born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago. He grew up in a musical household and was introduced to steelpan at the age of nine. Although his family refused to support his interests in “pan” because of the violence associated with the instrument’s early development, Kimani secretly continued to perform. Upon receiving his high school diploma, Kimani decided to build a career in music, and was offered an opportunity to work as a steelpan engineer at Panland, Trinidad and Tobago [the only steelpan company in the nation]. There, he spent ten years learning the art of building, tuning, and manufacturing all ranges of the steelpan. In 2015, Kimani pursued a bachelor’s degree in music at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine before embarking on a study abroad at Trinity College, where he eventually earned his degree. In 2021, Kimani received his master’s degree in ethnomusicology from Tufts University, and is now completing his doctoral studies in ethnomusicology at the University of Washington, Seattle. Kimani has collaborated with My People Tell Stories in the past, and we are thrilled to have him on our team this summer! Contact Kimani at: kimanibishop25@gmail.com. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/our-vision daily 0.75 2025-05-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1580494750492-L7BVFMDPXVHLR4UNHE5H/DSimonStudios_DBrown-72.jpg Our Vision - Our stories matter. In November 2014, I started My People Tell Stories because as an ethnomusicologist working in academia for more than a decade, I became concerned with the lack of diversity in music studies broadly speaking—including performance, research and education. Even in ethnomusicology, where people of color are more often than not the subjects of study, their lack of representation within the field was problematic and representative of the insidiousness of present-day systemic racism. My People Tell Stories represented my humble attempt to promote and validate the knowledge produced by people of color and subsequently create an education system that is more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Since those humble beginnings, My People Tell Stories has gone on to provide a wide variety of services in the arts to individuals, institutions, and businesses. From educational materials to innovative arts programs and professional development workshops, I am dedicated to providing services that help to dismantle the effects of systemic racism in the arts, and particularly in the field of music. I especially encourage people of color working in the arts to tell their stories in their own voices. Our stories matter. Our perspectives matter. I believe that when we share and listen to each other's stories, with an open heart and mind, we help to build a world where racism, sexism, xenophobia, and other forms of prejudice have no place to thrive. I hope you’ll join us on this journey to make the world a better place. And remember, “If you’re not telling your own stories, someone else is telling them for you.” — Danielle Brown, Ph.D. Founder & CEO https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/contact-us daily 0.75 2025-05-04 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/elephant-in-the-room daily 0.75 2020-03-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1583959103043-LCXK0859QZ6896Y438N0/Elephant+in+the+Room.png Elephant in the Room - The Elephant in the Room The Problem No One Wants to Discuss in Music Education There is a pressing issue in music education that most discussions of diversity, equity, and inclusion would prefer to ignore. What is it? Join us in this interactive webinar from 10:00am—11:30am on Saturday, March 21, 2020 for the answer. Fee: $30 Registration closes Friday, March 20, 2020 at 6:00pm. Registrants will receive a link to the webinar once registration has closed. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/east-of-flatbush daily 0.75 2025-05-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1591903289160-HW18O11BQRPP9S2TY1SL/13422388_10205577274906025_6230246002944309880_o.jpg East of Flatbush, North of Love https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1591901309518-K101Q4Y8HIPHFBNKSX1R/Book+Cover.jpg East of Flatbush, North of Love https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1591904126650-PZ0G1XETMXX21AGOP059/Teacher+Guidebook+Cover.jpg East of Flatbush, North of Love https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/one-woman-parang daily 0.75 2020-12-07 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/cpp-summer-online-course-2021 daily 0.75 2021-07-03 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/testimonials daily 0.75 2021-11-24 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/emmy-nominated-documentary-parang daily 0.75 2021-08-15 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/pedagogy-summer-2022 daily 0.75 2025-03-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1580523532998-ALS5RSSZEE9VBQ0X51OD/CMPW+2.png Caribbean Music Workshop - A music pedagogy for social justice. Started in 2018, the Caribbean Music Pedagogy Workshop (CMPW) is an intensive professional development workshop offered during select summers. The program combines studies in ethnomusicology, music education, and social justice. CMPW offers new ways of learning and teaching Caribbean music that recognize and validate the ingenuity and pedagogical methods of the people who create it. During the program, participants study music from at least three Caribbean nations representing different language areas from the region. Past workshops have focused on Cuba, Haiti, and Trinidad & Tobago. A Certification of Completion is awarded after successful completion of the workshop. Photo: Zane Rodulfo, CMPW Music Instructor, with 2018 cohort. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1643830520538-HM5EUWI2LBDC2RSPM51B/Caribbean%2BMap.jpg Caribbean Music Workshop - A different kind of workshop. CMPW differs from other music pedagogy workshops in that it actively promotes social justice in both its design and implementation. The workshop aims to help eradicate systemic racism in music by getting teachers, artists, and administrators to think consciously about their approaches to teaching, performing, and programming music. Participants will be exposed to Caribbean history and culture, important musical concepts in the study of Caribbean music, and will gain an understanding and appreciation for the inter-connectedness of the Caribbean region as a whole. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1644517779835-MEWUD2NLI85BEK1XGUNQ/Website%2BCalendar%2Bof%2BEvents.jpg Caribbean Music Workshop - Program Highlights Caribbean Music: Practice and Theory Caribbean History Music & Dance Workshops Special Guest Artists Social Justice Framework Teaching Resources & Strategies Certificate of Completion https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1644518321159-LAQKU9FCWHVKB5Q355QO/Goussy+Ce%CC%81lestin.png Caribbean Music Workshop - Our Instructors In keeping with our social justice goals, CMPW program instructors are local artists from the Caribbean or of Caribbean ancestry and are experts in their field. They bring a unique perspective to the study of Caribbean music in the U.S. where classes are taught primarily by people outside of the culture. Instructors teach from a Caribbean perspective and offer strategies for teaching musical traditions that have been marginalized within a system that privileges Western art music and Eurocentric pedagogical methods. Classes are led by multi-disciplinary artist, ethnomusicologist, and Kodály-certified music educator, Dr. Danielle Brown. Special music and dance workshops will be led by guest artists. For a list of past workshop instructors, click here. Photo: Goussy Célestin, CMPW Music & Dance Instructor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1580529350630-COY4NREEQU27FGZJHRX4/S.+Oxford+Space.jpg Caribbean Music Workshop - Location and Schedule Past workshops have taken place at the LuEsther T. Mertz South Oxford Space, conveniently located in Downtown Brooklyn, New York, as well as online (during the pandemic). Join our mailing list to stay informed about future workshops and their locations. Classes meet Monday—Friday from 9:30AM EST–4:30PM EST, with a 1-hour lunch break included. Considering the health implications of sitting, activities and small breaks are incorporated throughout the day to help break the monotony of sitting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1643830756143-WXWQX3DTTV9MEG3YM4Z5/Sprint+%26+Chat+Online+Workshop+Promo%281%29.png Caribbean Music Workshop - Registration, Tuition, and Fees Course Tuition: $1499* o Registration Fee (Non-refundable): $350* o Tuition Balance: $1149* Space is limited. To secure a seat in the class, register online and submit your deposit. The remaining balance is due by the stated deadline. After the deadline, applications for the workshop will be accepted on a space available basis. For applications submitted on or after the deadline, tuition will be due in full at the time of registration. *Prices are for our most recent workshop, and are listed only for reference. Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming workshops. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/pedagogy-summer-2022-registration daily 0.75 2022-04-04 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/self-publishing-101 daily 0.75 2023-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/530b7a77-e448-497e-8dfa-192f9b96a106/Self-Publishing+101.png Self-Publishing 101 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/acmpt daily 0.75 2023-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/65ffe3ad-f07b-4cb1-b4e8-d1dfb25dfb81/Afro-Caribbean+Music+Practice+%26+Theory.png Afro-Caribbean Music: Practice & Theory - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/coming-soon daily 0.75 2023-04-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/46590b76-334a-40e2-aed9-c5af8e22de4f/Social+Justice+in+Music.png Coming Soon - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/panama-tour-registration daily 0.75 2023-08-21 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/panama-tour-open-house daily 0.75 2023-08-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/4ffddf53-e188-45bf-b683-4297bbda7c17/Panama+City+2.png Panama Tour Open House - Make it stand out Panama City, Panama https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/music-medicine-workshop daily 0.75 2024-04-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/5596d361-44a8-4ee7-aad5-7d891b925146/Music+Medicine+Flyer+%281%29.png Music Medicine - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/cuban-dance-older-adults daily 0.75 2024-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1582733304472-J1UGS4TRH6IFI00VCALM/IMG_20190619_123502920.jpg Cuban Dance - Older Adults - Cuban Dance for Older Adults Since 2017, My People Tell Stories has offered classes in Cuban dance to older adults through a variety of programs at senior centers, churches, and fitness centers. Subscribe to our email list, or contact us at hello@mypeopletellstories.com, to learn more about our dance programs for older adults. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/b44ee01b-2bd2-40d7-b7f4-99fd51b27bd3/Screen+Shot+2024-06-20+at+1.59.56+PM.jpg Cuban Dance - Older Adults - Make it stand out Dr. Danielle Brown and participants perform a line dance where they demonstrate some basic steps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/e3931d66-3346-44e0-8e35-c3eae427e8d9/Screen+Shot+2024-06-20+at+1.35.50+PM.png Cuban Dance - Older Adults - Make it stand out Participants warming up at the start of class. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/0d7c7032-26c7-4677-b26c-d19108210108/Screen+Shot+2024-06-20+at+1.32.21+PM.jpg Cuban Dance - Older Adults - Make it stand out Dancing rueda de casino. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/d33812f8-9cda-473a-9f68-407ef88bb0f2/Screen+Shot+2024-06-20+at+2.04.21+PM.png Cuban Dance - Older Adults - Make it stand out Performing at our Cuban Dance Fiesta! https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/travel-tours daily 0.75 2026-02-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/948f4437-f887-4b76-9ada-59bb18eed6f3/Vin%CC%83ales%2C+Cuba.jpg Travel Tours - Make it stand out A trip to the countryside, where we learned about how tobacco, coffee, and rum are produced. Viñales, Cuba. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/home daily 1.0 2025-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1644254717610-XXQRKW2UBU22A4HLMBBY/2018+CMPW.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1580489772098-PTCCWXDEJHSK9P9NNSTL/Untitled%2Bdesign.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1735611113587-U2ESFGIL0LU3XBI58FBX/DSimonStudios_DBrown-54crop.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1592242122976-KKQE4Q8ONGI51LBAUTR6/Copy+of+BKLYN+Empty.png Home East of Flatbush, North of Love: An Ethnography of Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1644264101170-JSLOD6K7L6CL8PA6KGUJ/Teacher+Guidebook+EOFNL.png Home East of Flatbush, North of Love: Teacher Guidebook https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/should-i-perform-this-music daily 0.75 2024-09-09 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/cuban-dance-october-2024 daily 0.75 2024-10-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/4220d087-2190-4ca6-a44d-e6a0b918f6c7/BKLYN+Casineros+Intergenerational+Program+%28Instagram+Post%29.png A Weekend of Cuban Dance - Make it stand out Panama City, Panama https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/566fef14-c848-42b1-b5fb-02263a9d46ed/Screen+Shot+2024-10-12+at+3.23.10+PM.png A Weekend of Cuban Dance - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/585c4b0e-0b6d-48e6-aa50-3b6990c95670/Screen+Shot+2024-10-12+at+3.13.32+PM.png A Weekend of Cuban Dance - Make it stand out This class is part of Brooklyn Casineros: OG Edition, a program by My People Tell Stories in partnership with BKLVLUP, FTCC, the Sarita Jean OAC and Shore Hill OAC. The program is sponsored, in part, by the Greater New York Arts Development Fund of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. The program is made possible with funds from the Howard Gilman Foundation, and from the Statewide Community Regrants Program of the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. All grants administered by the Brooklyn Arts Council. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/montreal-tour-2025-registration daily 0.75 2025-07-17 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/montreal-tour-2025 daily 0.75 2025-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/f2fcd8c1-aced-44e2-a7ae-8c604a958e51/Montreal+2025+-+City+Night.png Montreal 2025 - Welcome to Montreal They say autumn in Montreal is a sight to behold. We wanted to see for ourselves. This French-speaking Canadian city, nestled along the St. Lawrence River, is known for its Underground City, vibrant murals, lively markets, and its unique and diverse food culture. Join us as we learn first-hand the stories that make Montreal a unique city in a big world. Read on to learn more, or register now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/f441607f-27e7-4f34-9943-7a8612523cce/Map+of+Montreal.jpg Montreal 2025 - Trip Overview From our base in Old Montreal, we will explore this largest city in the Canadian province of Quebec. During our 4-day experience, we will visit historic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and bustling markets. We’ll dine on local food, learn about Montreal’s arts scene, and the city’s lesser known Black history and culture. It’s going to be a great few days centered on culture and connection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/e52edde9-abd8-4d99-9602-bbff344e624f/Montreal+2025+-+Basilica.png Montreal 2025 - Itinerary & Trip Highlights* Hotel check-in: Friday, Sept. 19, 2025 4PM | Opening tour activity: 6PM Hotel check-out: Monday, Sept. 22, 2025 11AM (Tour ends) Why not get a head start exploring Montreal? Participants can arrive as early as they want on arrival day. Luggage hold is available, and your tour host will already be on site to assist you. Highlights of the tour include: Old Montreal Walking Tour Little Burgundy (Black Montreal) Montreal Food Tour ...And some surprises! *Registered participants will receive a complete itinerary of activities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/4923c722-0a7c-4b68-ba51-a42e00d409e2/Montreal+2025+-+Jardin+Botanique.png Montreal 2025 - Trip Features Pre-travel Orientation Welcome Packet Accommodations 4 Included Meals Guided Tours Transportation to tour activities Entrance fees to tour sites and events Tips for tour activities 24-Hour Assistance https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/95550976-6e9a-4d78-949b-889bfed850fc/Montreal+2025.png Montreal 2025 - Accommodations We will be based in Vieux-Montréal, also known as Old Montreal. This beautiful and historic district will be our launching ground during the tour. We will be housed in boutique hotel apartments within walking distance to many sites and attractions. We have a limited number of single and double occupancy rooms. Double occupancy rooms are available with separate or shared beds. All rooms are equipped with a full bathroom, kitchen, and laundry. Amenities include a rooftop deck, gymnasium, sauna, and 24/7 front desk. Room selections are available on a “first come, first served” basis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/df9484d9-6fab-4b57-82f4-d0c36035fb2e/Canada+Money.jpg Montreal 2025 - Pricing Price is per person and includes accommodations, 4 meals, guided tours, fees and tips for tour activities, and transportation to tour activities.* Airfare and travel insurance are not included. Single Occupancy — $2050 USD Double Occupancy—$1875 USD *Please note that transportation may include public transportation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/6cf5f0cc-713b-4406-9dc6-d768c5849376/Montreal+2025+-+Register.png Montreal 2025 - Registration To register for our upcoming tour of Montreal, please click the button below to fill out the registration form. Once received, we may request further information from you, and we will send instructions on how to make payment to the email listed on your registration form. Please note that your registration is not complete until you pay the $675 non-refundable deposit or make a full payment. Payments can be made via check, Zelle, or credit card. Please note that a processing fee will be added to each credit card payment. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/travel-information-montreal daily 0.75 2025-08-18 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/contact-bookings daily 0.75 2025-08-20 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/china-2026-interest-list daily 0.75 2026-01-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/83df954b-4caf-452f-a72a-3cedfcf74ca2/14.jpg China 2026 - Interest - Make it stand out Panama City, Panama https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/china-tour-2026 daily 0.75 2026-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/9cad6b04-8823-4147-b06b-3524112d652d/15.jpg China 2026 - Welcome to China Join us on a journey to China! Across three dynamic cities —Beijing, Chengdu, and Shanghai — we’ll explore imperial history, ancient engineering, spiritual landscapes, neighborhood life, and contemporary urban culture. With expert local guides and built-in free time, this tour balances guided experiences with personal discovery. Carefully curated and hosted by My People Tell Stories Founder, Danielle Brown, Ph.D., our tours are not about performing travel; we’re not doing it “for the ‘gram.” Our tours are about presence — being fully immersed in the moment for the experience of connecting to a place, a people, and to each other. Expect meaningful conversations, shared meals, time to wander, and moments that stay with you long after the trip ends. Welcome to China! 欢迎来到中国！Huānyíng láidào Zhōngguó! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/fe644b8c-90ef-463b-92e8-6ec4de988eb0/Sichuan+Opera%282%29.jpg China 2026 - The Journey: At a Glance This 14-day journey offers a thoughtful introduction to the breadth and depth of China, blending history, culture, and modern city life. In Beijing, we’ll explore historic hutongs, visit China’s imperial palace, and walk The Great Wall. Chengdu invites a slower pace, with experiences including Sichuan opera, a traditional tea house visit, encounters with giant pandas, and an immersive food tour. There’ll be free time to explore, relax, and enjoy the city’s vibrant music scene. (Did you know Chengdu is home to the most Chinese rappers?) Our journey concludes in Shanghai, China’s most international city, with a day trip to the historic water town of Zhujiajiao. Throughout the tour, you’ll stay in comfortable, centrally located 4-star hotels. You’ll also enjoy daily breakfast, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/144b1748-16b2-4d65-9b2b-09a6f6ebb827/Shanghai+Skyline.jpg China 2026 - Trip Features Pre-travel Orientation Travel Packet Airport Transfers Accommodations Daily breakfast, plus 8 lunches & 8 dinners Guided Tours Intercity transportation and transportation to tour sites Entrance fees to tour sites and activities 24-Hour Assistance https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/7fb5d38e-c09b-42a0-8156-962bf913f66d/People%27s+Park+Chengdu+-+Boats.jpg China 2026 - Accommodations In each of our base cities, we will stay at centrally located 4-star hotels. All rooms are equipped with standard amenities, including private bathrooms and Wi-Fi. Daily breakfast is included with your stay. In addition, as common in Chinese hotels, your rooms will also include basic toiletries and slippers. Each hotel has laundry facilities on-site and 24/7 front desk service. We have a limited number of single and double occupancy rooms. Double occupancy rooms are available with separate or shared beds. Room selections are available on a “first come, first served” basis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/56377845-3772-481d-978e-7b28daf70df8/China+Pagoda+and+Flowers.jpg China 2026 - Pricing Price is per person and includes accommodations, daily breakfast, 8 lunches and 8 dinners, guided tours, activity fees, on-tour transportation (including intercity travel), and airport transfers. Airfare, visa, and travel insurance are not included. Double Occupancy Early Bird Rate* — $3850 USD Double Occupancy Regular Rate — $3975 USD Single Occupancy Early Bird Rate* — $4310 USD Single Occupancy Regular Rate — $4435 USD *Early Bird Rate ends at 11:59PM EST on March 15, 2026. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/4a8f702a-c01f-48f2-84f8-a91d58f50e8d/China+Lanterns.jpg China 2026 - Registration To register for China Tour 2026, click the button below and complete the registration form. After review, we may request additional information. Once your registration is approved, payment instructions will be sent to the email provided. Registration is not complete until the $750 non-refundable deposit or full payment is received. Payments may be made by check, Zelle, or credit card. Please note a processing fee will be applied to all credit card payments. https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/china-tour-2026-registration daily 0.75 2026-01-29 https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/china-tour-2026-open-house daily 0.75 2026-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/56377845-3772-481d-978e-7b28daf70df8/China+Pagoda+and+Flowers.jpg China Tour 2026 - Open House - Make it stand out Panama City, Panama https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/store daily 0.75 2023-10-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/bc675696-7078-420d-8e9a-205f13a16d70/Partial+Book+Cover+EOFNL.jpg https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/store/p/east-of-flatbush-teacher-guidebook monthly 0.5 2023-06-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1583082679326-8UCNKPYLCO8F4B1WQA05/Copy+of+Teacher+Guidebook.png Store - East of Flatbush Teacher Guidebook (Digital Download) https://www.mypeopletellstories.com/store/p/east-of-flatbush monthly 0.5 2024-06-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e34573b64f9aa0a90170bb8/1580510314891-3ROPWIX6Y8MMZ6OWNR18/%5BOriginal+size%5D+%5BOriginal+size%5D+Post+Card+Design.png Store - East of Flatbush, North of Love: An Ethnography of Home (Paperback)