Since 2005, I have participated in ethnographic research of African and African diasporic music and sacred arts practices. My own background from southwestern Ohio has also been an area of inspiration for local music making, artist histories, and the stories of the people. I have researched, provided instruction and program administration to university student groups, professional and community organizations on music, dance, and culture from West Africa, Brazil, and the US. My particular focus has been on the intersections of ritual, performance, and expressive arts practices for healing in Black and African arts based projects.