Heritage O.P.

April 20, 2017
1:00pm
Tuohy Hall Auditorium

The Council for the Arts at SJC Brooklyn proudly presents Heritage O.P., a world beat percussion and vocal ensemble that fuses the rich cultural traditions and diasporal rhythms of Africa – from South America to the Caribbean – with African-American tradition and modern musical trends. Their sound is contemporary with a strong beat and positive lyrics designed to uplift, inspire and move the listener to dance. They do this, however, using mostly traditional instruments as they share a deep respect for the beauty of acoustic sound and natural resonance. Hence the “O.P.," which stands for organic percussion. Heritage O.P. has a vision to heal and unite, believing that music is truly the “healing force of the world.” 

Since their beginning in 1996, the band has been touring nationally and internationally, independently producing three CDs: "Heritage," "Universal Healing" and "When I Start To Play," their latest creation, which has sold thousands of copies. Their music can be heard on radio stations worldwide, but most frequently on WBAI radio in New York City, as it is thematic for some of the station's programs. You can also hear their music on the soundtrack of Marc Leven’s movie “Brooklyn’s Babylon.”

The music of heritage O.P. is quite unique and popular among theatrical dance companies and productions. Whether in the performance repertoire of the Ailey II of NYC, the Frankfurt Ballet of Germany or on the set of Broadway’s "Lion King," the music of Heritage O.P. winds up almost everywhere in the dance world.

The group’s core is comprised of four composing members: Ron McBee from San Franciso, California; Hasan Bakr from Savannah, Georgia; Victor Y. See Yuen from Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies; and Kevin Nathaniel from Detroit, Michigan. The band generally tours as an 8- to 10-piece percussion orchestra with background singers and dancers. Together, Heritage O.P. brings you sound rich in ancestral tradition with a vision for a better world, a world of harmony.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, email [email protected].