There’s music of the gods, and there’s also music of the gourds. Beverly Botsford uses an assortment of gourds to create stirring rhythms, and she will present a free performance at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh on Sunday, Aug. 10, at 3 p.m. Botsford will intersperse folklore, history, humor, science and art throughout her entertaining presentation for all ages. The program is part of the museum’s Summer Performance Series. Parking is free on weekends.
Botsford calls herself a cross-cultural percussionist and educator with a unique perspective. During her 25-year career as a performer and educator, she has toured with Chuck Davis and the African American Dance Ensemble, jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon and other noted musicians. She is currently on the touring and residency rosters for the N.C. Arts Council and the S.C. Arts Commission.
Botsford’s passion for rhythm has led the Charlotte native on an incredible journey. She says, “Rhythm is the essence of life, from the heartbeat to the cycle of seasons to the symphony of sounds in nature. Its power goes beyond social and cultural boundaries to bind all living things on earth.”
Come see Botsford’s unusual performance at the N.C. Museum of History on Aug. 10!
HISTORY À LA CARTE: GO FOR THE GOLD!
Get set for the summer games with tales of Tar Heel athleticism, and learn about the accomplishments of athletes and coaches. On Wednesday, Aug. 13, sports historian Jim Sumner will highlight North Carolinians, such as Michael Jordan, Kay Yow and LeRoy Walker, who have made history at the Olympics. Bring your lunch to the 12:10 p.m. program History à la Carte: Go for the Gold!
For more information about these programs, call 919-807-7900 or check out the museum’s Web site at ncmuseumofhistory.org.
The N.C. Museum of History’s hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is part of the Division of State History Museums, Office of Archives and History, an agency of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources. The department’s Web site is www.ncculture.com.