As members of diasporic communities, many of us inherit a cultural divide. This divide can lead to a feeling of disorientation, stemming from a disconnect with our ancestral histories, languages, and traditions. Exploring the cultures of our forebears allows us to ground ourselves in our identity so we can consciously select the aspects to carry forward as we shape our own cultural narrative. Through the act of sharing life stories, wonderings, ballads, and spiritual practices, humans have always found solace and expression by creating different forms of cultural medicine for life's challenges. 

Instructor Lily Henley's journey into the diverse folk lineages that have influenced her musical style will serve as the inspiration for exploring the creativity inherent in your own heritage, identity, and lineage. Prepare to ignite your curiosity and discover the tools to continue your personal exploration through music, anthropology, history, and the reclamation of culture.

Facilitator: Lily Henley is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright award and was an Artist-in-Residence at the Cité Internationale des Arts in Paris. She has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Caramoor American Roots Festival, and the New York Sephardic Music Festival. She’s currently touring with mystic-folk band Rising Appalachia and has played with Irish guitar virtuoso John Doyle, Americana Instrumentalist of the Year Brittany Haas, and GRAMMY winners David Krakauer, Rushad Eggleston, The Duhks, and many more.