Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracie Jackson.
Hi Tracie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was introduced to traditional rhythms from West Africa and their transitions in 1995 when I moved to New Orleans. Initially, I thought it was great to have a dance workout to live drumming. I really was not interested in the history, culture, meanings, songs, etc., that accompanied the art form; I just knew how the music and movement made me feel. However. During my ten years of study in New Orleans, through this art form, I began to connect the dots between many of the present-day rituals practiced in our communities and those practiced centuries ago in the villages of West African countries. Upon moving to Houston in 2005, I took classes with Mohammed Diaby. a Master Drum and Dance Artist from Guinea, West Africa, and eventually joined his company. In 2007, Mohammed left Houston, and as a result, Intuitive African Dance and Drum Culture was created. Intuitive was founded with the intention of preserving, promoting, and educating the masses on the rich cultural and traditional history of these rhythms, including the art form’s impact on music and dance genres throughout the world. In its seventeen-year history, Intuitive has provided instruction and performance services throughout Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. These services have been provided to organizations such as Rice University, the Houston Symphony, the Children’s Museum of Houston, the Houston Museum of Fine Arts, several school districts, churches, and community organizations. I believe the polyrhythmic sounds of the drum and the polycentric movements of the dances, combined with the meanings the rhythms are created, are healing on cultural, physical, mental, and spiritual levels.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course, there have been challenges. Resources are always an issue. Intuitive is privately financed, we are not a non-profit organization and therefore does not receive funding. This artform requires the services of artists skilled and knowledgeable in the traditional West African rhythms (,) (w)ho should be compensated for their services. Further, spaces to hold classes and other events cost money as well. I can say, however, that there has been a consistent interest in the art form, resulting in new opportunities.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a teacher and performer of traditional drum and dance rhythms from the countries of West Africa. I have been teaching community/instructional classes in Houston, Texas, for the past sixteen years. I have been an adjunct professor at the University of Houston Theater and Dance Department since 2020. I am happy that people who are introduced to this art form connect with it in a profound way. I have seen toddlers, elders, and animals respond and react to the sounds and movements in very positive ways. I believe what sets me apart is that I am able to teach those who are inexperienced and experienced in dance, and everyone has a pleasurable experience.
How do you define success?
I define success as seeing your intentions fulfilled.
Pricing:
- Community classes are $10 in advance or $15 at the door.
- Pricing for instructional classes, workshops, and performances are available upon request.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Intuitiveculturalhealing.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Intuitiveafricandance?=dG8yeDVaXJzYjF3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089584622103&mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/intuitive-african-dance-and-drum-culture-0a948110?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
Image Credits
Images by NK; the Houston Symphony, blue treasure photography.
