Meet the artists! Local musicians featured in Musical Explorers

More than 3,400 K-2 students will embark on a musical adventure this month! They’ll learn about three different musical styles from their community in Musical Explorers. Now in its third year, our semester-long education program presented in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute helps teachers in Omaha, Council Bluffs and beyond introduce basic music skills in the classroom. Along the way, students get to know three local artists and reflect on the music traditions in their own community. Pretty cool, huh?

At the end of the semester, the students get to hear the artists play live during a year-end concert at the Holland Center. It’s like a rock concert for grade-schoolers – they all get out of their seats and dance and sing along to the music they’ve studied all semester long.

You can get to know the artists and their styles, too!

The Wildwoods Band

Students will learn about folk music with The Wildwoods Band. The Nebraska natives bring a pioneer sound to Americana roots music. The group’s heartwarming lyrics and vocals are wrapped in a style influence by old-time country masters and today’s indie/folk sound.

“We wanted to participate in Musical Explorers because music and the arts are very important to us … We wanted to get a chance to show the students that not only can music be fun and form of self-expression, it can also unveil a lot about a person’s culture, background or beliefs. We live and breathe music, and we love any chance we can get to share this love with others.”

Marcos Mora

He will introduce students to Mexican music. Raised in South Omaha, Mora is an accomplished musician with over 25 years of experience. He comes from one of the largest Mexican American families in Omaha – La Familia Barrientos – who has contributed to the Omaha music scene for more than 80 years.

“I participated in Musical Explorers because it was a great opportunity to share culture. I’m fascinated with the beautiful culture from around the world and what a wonderful opportunity to share with children that beauty…it’s so great to give these children the chance to experience something new and amazing.”

Charles Ahovissi

Charles Ahovissi will introduce students to West African music with the African Culture Connection. Born and raised in Benin, he grew up in a culture rich in traditional music, dance and storytelling. This led hime to become a professional dancer and drummer. He moved to the U.S. in 2000 and later co-founded the nonprofit African Culture Connection.

Learn more about our Musical Explorers program here on our website.