West African dance party meets East African traditional music. Rasaq of AfrVbz will lead the crowd in an Afrobeats dance class for any age and experience level. In parallel, Orchestra 2001 will perform live music from its ENGOMA ENTEERA series, featuring small ensemble pieces by Justinian Tamusuza, a composer based in Uganda. Justinian writes music for western classical instruments using techniques and polyrhythms that marry classical with traditional Kigandan folk music of East Africa.

Pop-Ups at the Portal is an all ages, interactive music series presented by University City District and Gretchen Elise at the outdoor Trolley Portal Gardens, 4000 Baltimore Ave. Philadelphia. Events are free each Thursday 5pm - 7pm. Inclement weather event is inside Renata’s Kitchen at the same location. Details: www.gretchenelise.com/gigs www.universitycity.org/trolleyportal

May 9: M.O.M. (Music Over Matter)
Soulful beats with audience participation

May 16: Trumpet Chics
Energetic youth brass dance band

May 23: MIC’d UP Allstars
Youth - led jazz fusion & open mic jam

May 30: AfrVbz  & Engoma Enteera
W. African dance party meets E. African classical music

June 6: Gretchen Elise
Interactive Jazz-soul set & open mic jam