Sticks + Bars is D.C.’s first-and-only African-style youth marimba band dedicated to shining a light on Southern Africa’s vibrant music and musical stylings of the African diaspora and diverse cultures worldwide.

These young musicians have shared their exuberant performances at the Kennedy Center, Strathmore Hall, and other venues along the East Coast. They also performed at a concert with the famed South African group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Group founder and director Premila Mistry is a D.C. Public Schools music teacher who has taught music for over 20 years. She also is a composer and co-creator of Sunflower the Musical.

The concert is free and no tickets or reservations are required. Donations will be accepted to support the group. Seating is first come, first served, and there is limited parking at the Takoma Park police station, Piney Branch Elementary School, and neighboring streets.

This event is part of the Takoma Park Arts series organized by the City of Takoma Park’s Arts and Humanities Division, which includes free concerts, theater, dance, film screenings, art exhibitions, and other events at the Takoma Park Community Center.

You can find more info and sign up for our e-newsletter at takomaparkmd.gov/arts. Join us and celebrate the arts!