Currently in development, the WIP connects the art of tap with its West African and Jazz origins. 

Afro Feet is an exploration of the African Diasporic imprint on American arts & culture conceived, directed and conducted by foot musician, Omar Edwards. The work combines elements of the all American jazz band with instruments indigenous of both continents providing insight into the true origin, meaning and nature of jazz across time, space and cultural misconceptions. The integration of African, American, European and Latin jazz elements fuse together to create an imaginative soundtrack for 5 to 7 tap compositions that collectively exhibit and promote tap as an American Folk Art of movement and sound.  The end result are both live and recorded music performance(s). 

The concept for the project was sparked at a recent performance at the Hampton United Methodist Church in Southampton.  The event was presented by the church as part of their annual Black History Month Celebration and Tour which [this year] included Mr. Edwards, his youth ensemble of aspiring foot musicians -  A-Tone-Meant and tour pioneers - students of the Edge School of the Arts. The event was made possible with additional support from Kerri Edge, Michael Daly & John 'Slim' Pickens and included musicians collected by Claes Brondal of Jam Session, Inc. (drums), Greg Lewis (organ), Eric Schugren (sax),  Atiba Morales (djembe), and Anthony Godineaux (djun djun). 

The work samples attached to this project page show examples of work that embraces the overall concept of the WIP.

Samples have been tentatively titled:

- The Spirit
- The Pulse
- The Root

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AFRO FEET