Events

Tasha Smith Godinez: Harp Music from Around the World at La Mesa Library

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Join us for a free performance featuring harpist, composer, and educator Tasha Smith Godinez. Transcending the boundaries of tradition with her music, Tasha reimagines the harp, moving beyond its Western classical roots to weave a rich tapestry of jazz, world music, and her original compositions.

About the Artist

Tasha Smith Godinez has been immersed in music her entire life. Her academic achievements include performance degrees from San Diego State University (BA, 2005; MA, 2010) and the prestigious l’Ecole Normale de Musique Alfred Corot in Paris, France (Diplôme de Concert, 2006). She has served as principal harpist for the Orquesta de Baja California in Tijuana, Mexico, and the Grossmont Symphony Orchestra in San Diego, as well as performing with the San Diego Symphony.

Based in San Diego, Godinez shares her expertise as an applied harp instructor at the University of San Diego’s Department of Music. She also leads the San Diego Harp Academy, where she welcomes students of all ages and skill levels at her studio in La Mesa.

This event is brought to you through the generosity and support of the Friends of the La Mesa Library.

Dennis Gittens at San Diego Central Library

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Join jazz vocalist Dennis Gittens at the San Diego Central Library in celebration of Juneteenth.

Dennis Gittens, who now resides in San Diego, hails from the East Coast. Heavily influenced by artists such as Johnny Hartman, Sarah Vaughan, and Frank Sinatra, Gittens has developed a smooth and soulful vocal style that is deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. He performs regularly throughout San Diego, sharing the stage with notable musicians and captivating audiences with his timeless sound and dynamic stage presence.

Claudia Lyra: Children’s Concert at Alpine Library

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This event is presented in partnership with the Alpine Library. Join us for a free concert of Brazilian music and dance for kids of all ages!

About the Artist

Claudia Lyra, an art and language teacher from Brazil, integrates Brazilian cultural arts into her teaching to foster critical thinking, self-worth, equality, and social skills among students of all ages. She uses traditional Brazilian rhythms, Capoeira (Afro-Brazilian martial arts/dance), and storytelling to inspire students while teaching about Brazilian culture through music. With partnerships in San Diego and other districts, she develops arts integration curricula and leads cultural assembly and residency programs, such as Do RE TREE, promoting environmental awareness and Brazilian arts in schools.

Sponsored by Friends of Alpine Library.

Samahan Rondalla Trio at La Mesa Library

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Join Samahan Rondalla Trio featuring singer Kim Kalanduyan performing a free concert of folk songs from the Philippines at La Mesa Library.

Tracing its origins from Spain and Latin America, Rondalla music is a localized genre popular for special occasions among Filipinos. Come experience the lilting sounds of the banduria (14-stringed mandolin) and the guitar accompanying songs expressing the simplicity of life in the village and the nostalgia of old Manila. Musicians include Bernard Ellorin, Kim Kalanduyan, and Marlo Campos.