May 25, The Old School House, Loyalton, Ca
Sierra Valley, CA -April 19, 2024 - Musica Sierra proudly presents a permanent installation of eight stunning stained glass windows in the Old School House, Loyalton's oldest educational building, as a tribute to the breathtaking beauty of the majestic Sierra Valley. Created by the distinguished artist Marjorie Voorhees of the Walker River Paiute out of Schurz, NV was born in Loyalton and grew up here in Sattley, on the west end of the Sierra Valley. She is a recent recipient of the prestigious 2023 California Arts Council Creative Corps Grant. These masterpieces reflect the vibrant essence of the local landscape.
This special unveiling will be complemented by a moving performance from the Red Hoop Singers, premiering six new round dance and powwow songs commissioned by Musica Sierra as part of their Musical Headwaters education initiative.
This one-of-a-kind event will begin with a wine and cheese reception/open house, offering patrons the opportunity to tour the space and behold the majestic stained glass windows. The unveiling will be followed by a captivating performance by the renowned Red Hoop Singers, marking the fourth installment of Musica Sierra's Musical Headwaters program. The performance will feature six new round dances and powwow songs composed specifically for the occasion, showcasing the vibrant heritage and storytelling traditions of the Washoe and neighboring tribes. Attendees can expect an immersive experience that celebrates the intersection of art, culture, and community.
Musical Headwaters, a Musica Sierra initiative, commissions new works of music inspired by the Sierra Valley, aiming to bridge nature-based education with the visual and performing arts while deepening children's social and emotional connection to the earth. This year's theme, "Year of the Bird," celebrates the rich avian diversity of the Sierra Valley.
The Red Hoop Singers, rooted in the Washoe Tribe and established in 1994 in Dresslerville, Nevada, bring a profound cultural resonance to the event. Led by Martin Montgomery, an enrolled member of the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, the Red Hoop Singers will enchant the audience with traditional songs and dances honoring the birds of the Sierra Valley.
Martin Montgomery expressed his excitement for the collaboration, stating, "The Year of the Bird provides such a wonderful opportunity to share the many stories, dances, and songs that our group has to share." The Red Hoop Singers comprise members from various tribes, including Washoe, Paiute, Shoshone, Miwuk, Chumash, and Maidu, each contributing to the rich tapestry of indigenous culture.
