Rhiannon Giddens Explores the Heart of Folk Music at The Music Center at Strathmore

On Monday, March 18, The Music Center at Strathmore will host an evening of profound musical exploration led by the incomparable Rhiannon Giddens. A luminary in the world of folk music, Giddens's work delves deeper into the rich tapestry of American history to shed light on often overlooked narratives. With her distinctive voice and unparalleled talent, Giddens has captivated audiences worldwide, earning accolades including a MacArthur "Genius Grant" and multiple Grammy nominations.

As a co-founder of the Grammy Award-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops and a member of the groundbreaking ensemble Our Native Daughters, she has continually pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be a folk musician in the 21st century. Her collaborations with fellow artists Leyla McCalla, Allison Russell, and Amythyst Kiah in Our Native Daughters represent a powerful celebration of Black female voices in a genre historically dominated by white performers.

At the heart of Giddens's artistry lies a commitment to uncovering the truths of America's past and present. Through her music, she confronts the complexities of race, identity, and social justice, challenging listeners to confront uncomfortable realities with courage and compassion. Her latest solo album, "You're the One," released on Nonesuch Records, continues this tradition, offering a soul-stirring exploration of love, loss, and resilience.

But Giddens's impact extends far beyond the stage. In addition to her musical endeavors, she is a passionate educator and advocate for the preservation of folk traditions. Through workshops, lectures, and educational initiatives, she shares her knowledge and passion for Black folk music, ensuring that future generations will continue to honor and celebrate this vital aspect of American culture.

Before the concert at The Music Center at Strathmore, attendees will have the opportunity to experience the roots of Black folk music with a pre-concert event titled "Black Folk Music and the Banjo." Led by Kristina Gaddy and Giddens herself, this session promises to provide invaluable insights into the history and significance of the banjo in African American musical traditions.

In a world where the past often feels distant and disconnected from the present, Rhiannon Giddens serves as a beacon of light, using her art to bridge the gap between generations and cultures. As she continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the globe, her legacy as a champion of truth, justice, and the transformative power of music will undoubtedly endure for years to come.

So visit our Event Calendar for tickets to join the audience at The Music Center at Strathmore on March 18th for an evening of unparalleled musical brilliance with the one and only Rhiannon Giddens.

More News from Takoma Park

• Passion, Betrayal, and Boldness: Don’t Miss Virginia Opera’s Carmen! Experience the fierce allure of Bizet's Carmen live at George Mason University on Nov 16—opera’s most captivating drama awaits!
• What to do in the DC Area - Tuesday, Nov 12 - Thursday, Nov 14 Catch live jazz, theater, and legendary artists in DC this week—from Miki Yamanaka to Morrissey and Drunk Shakespeare to Kenny G!