Women Of The Calabash was formed in 1978 by its founder and artistic director, the late Madeleine Yayodele Nelson. Yayo, as she was affectionately called, was respected as a vocalist, vocal arranger, percussionist and master of the craft of playing and making shekeres. Her scope and expertise brought her to the attention of Paul Simon with whom she performed on his album, “Rhythm Of The Saints” and received a platinum record.
The phenomenal performance ensemble combines traditional instruments, vocals and traditional music forms with contemporary influences. Through their performance and informal dialogue, Women Of The Calabash introduce audiences of all ages to the history and playing techniques of a wide variety of instruments. By performing a variety of music from Africa, the Caribbean and Black America, this ensemble crosses boundaries of style and instrumentation to give unity and context to the African American experience.
Women Of The Calabash has shared billing with: The Temptations, Richie Havens, Phillip Glass, Odetta, and The Art Ensemble of Chicago. The group has performed for former Presidents Tomas Sankura of Burkina Faso, Jean Bertrand Aristide of Haiti, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia. Women Of The Calabash have been teaching artists for Symphony Space since 1989.
The current members dedicated to keeping the legacy alive include Joan Ashley, Caren Calder-Adams, Susan Rapalee, and Carole Caru Thompson.