Join us for “Echoes of Expression,” a multi-sensory exploration of the acclaimed book “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi.

This free book club series spans five unique events that integrate the novel’s powerful themes with live jazz performances, art creation, and engaging discussions. Our second book club event’s theme will be about Freedom & Struggle.

If you are interested in participating in the series held at the Queens Library, please visit THIS event page.

Event Details:

Kick-off Event:
Embark on your “Homegoing” experience at our opening event, featuring a cultural showcase with remarks from the author Yea Gyasi, vibrant live performances, and an interactive art exhibit.

All attendees will receive a complimentary copy of the book.

Three Book Clubs:
Participate in three engaging book clubs where each session uniquely combines literature with jazz and art to deepen the understanding of “Homegoing’s” narratives:

• History and Storytelling: Explore historical themes enhanced by live jazz and interactive art workshops.
• Freedom and Struggle: Examine the book’s themes of liberty and conflict through thematic performances and artistic creations.
• Laughter and Tears: Delve into the emotional spectrum of the book accompanied by expressive music and art

Culminating Event (at The National Jazz Museum in Harlem):
58 W 129th St Ground Floor, 2203, New York, NY 10027

The series concludes with a celebration of the insights and artistic expressions generated from the discussions and activities. This final event features community-led dialogues and a closing jazz performance that encapsulates the themes of “Homegoing,” honoring the shared exploration.

Join us in celebrating this unique exploration of literature, music, and art. Your presence enriches these transformative experiences.

Steven G. Fullwood is an archivist, editor, and writer. He is the co-founder of the Nomadic Archivists Project which partners with organizations, institutions, and individuals to establish, preserve, and enhance collections that explore the African Diasporic experience. Currently, he serves as the coordinator for Marking Time, Art in the Age of Mass Incarceration project, curated by Dr. Nicole R. Fleetwood. Steven manages the traveling exhibition and leads Archiving Marking Time, an initiative to help individuals and organizations associated with the project with their archival needs.

Among the most well-known and respected figures in East African Jazz is pianist, keyboardist, composer and producer Aaron Rimbui. Rimbui, a Kenyan native based out of New York City, (born Harun Kimathi Rimbui, October 15, 1979) is a music and artistic director, bandleader, festival curator, radio host, recording artist and most notably a refined live performer who has shared his incredible talent before international audiences. He has released 5 albums and is the winner of the 2018 Mzantsi Jazz Award for Best International Collaboration Album for his album, Kwetu. He has been nominated for multiple awards including All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) in 2022 for Best Male Artiste in East Africa and a second nomination in 2023 by Soundcity MVP in their biggest category, Song of the Year for his work on Bald Men Love Better with Bien-Aime Baraza of Sauti Sol.

Support and Partnerships:

This series is generously funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and Arts Midwest Big Read program. We are grateful for the partnership with Queens Public Library, which has been instrumental in bringing this enriching event to our community.