Two of the young dancers of Chikwu Ayali perform on the first night of the Newburgh Jazz Series.
The 2010 Newburgh Jazz got off to a lively start on Thursday evening at the Newburgh waterfront when the African dance and drum ensemble Chikwu Ayali brought its own participatory performance style to the crowd of 250 people.
Alexandreena Dixon danced with members of the audience.
As the drummers beat a fiery rhythm, the younger dancers under the direction of Alexandreena Dixon spun around on the grass, their African print costumes creating a whirl of color. Dixon then called on members of the audience to join in the celebration and several people took a chance and began moving to the African beat.
The Ferry Godmother, Aquanetta Wright, welcomed all to the jazz series.
After the first hour’s performance, Aquanetta Wright, also known as the Ferry Godmother, welcomed people to the jazz series, which she first created four years ago. Dressed is a shimmering gown with green wings sprouting from her back and a wand in her hand, the Ferry Godmother talked about how the jazz series is a gift to the people of Newburgh for all to enjoy.
Abdoulaye Alhassane Toure, on guitar, with members of his band, Deep Sahara.
She then introduced Abdoulaye Alhassane Toure, of Niger, who performs music from the Saharan region of West Africa with three other musicians who form the band Deep Sahara. With an abundance of strings – acoustic guitar, electric bass, violin and the molo and gurmi, both traditional instruments – the band created a riveting sound with complex rhythms and bluesy tones.
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