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!

The Rondo Band - For over 30 years, Mr. James Felix has taught saxophone, clarinet and flute in addition to directing jazz ensembles here at Walker West. He has been a mentor and organizer for youth performances at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival since 2003. He is a natural at engaging youth and has given a life of service to the promotion of jazz in our community. He was even given the Jazz Educator Award sponsored by Thrivent Financial at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival in 2019.

Check out The Rondo Band as part of the Rondo Community Music Series, led by Mr. Felix James, which features a revolving cast of well known players from the Twin Cities and beyond. 