In 1956, more  than 600 African-American families, including businesses and  institutions living in the Rondo neighborhood of Saint Paul,  lost their  homes to the construction of the new I-94 highway cutting across the  United States. Rondo's disaggregation was part of a national movement  that upended thousands of black, immigrant, and poor communities to make  room for more seamless coast-to-coast automobile transportation. Home  to such artists as Gordon Parks, August Wilson, Roberta Davies, and  Bobby Lyles, the Rondo neighborhood produced and inspired artists and  musicians who would go on to national fame. The Rondo Community Music  Series, presented by Walker West Music Academy, showcases a current  generation of artists who continue to be inspired by Rondo's history,  cultural expression, and resilience. The Rondo Community Music Series  presents a variety of musicians and artists from September through April  2024. Join us for all of the hour-long concerts and be inspired by the  power of music to convey and shape communities. All shows are FREE, but  you must register!

Kevin Washington has been part of this series since it’s inception,  with his group RA Spirit performing in the 2021 series as well. You  won’t want to miss their return. Kevin is among the most versatile of  jazz musicians-as adept at playing straight ahead tunes as he is  incorporating Afro-Latin rhythms on hip-hop into his sets. He has studied under legendary drummer Max Roach and has played with top jazz  performers such as saxophonist Antonio Hart and James Carter. Kevin is a  Walker|West instructor.

In order to watch with us in our virtual music hall, be sure to click ‘Save My Spot’.

Kevin Washington & RA SPIRIT