About Us:

Polyrhythm is the simultaneous sounding of two or more independent rhythms. (Definition of Polyrhythm)

In 2002, two grass roots arts advocates groups, Homefolks Communications and Ebony Expressions, committed to education and demonstration, collaborated to create a neighborhood event called “Blues in the Hood” which featured workshops on music, dance, poetry, literacy (parents and leaders read stories to children throughout the day) in addition to the bands. This exercise in blending of contrasting rhythms led to the name Polyrhythms and extending the invitation to other cadres to join and consolidate our efforts. We have consistently presented our culture as worthy and the artistry as something to strive for through programs such as “Talk That Talk” (where people can begin to experiment and showcase their talents), “Dinner and Book Discussion”(on occasion bringing the author to the event), “Kwanzaa”, “The Negro Baseball League” (visited many schools, attracted collectors throughout the region. Buck O’Neal threw out the first pitch at Swing baseball game), as well as enabling, facilitating, and participating.

The Polyrhythms' presentation of the "Jazz & Blues Restoration Project" (JBRP), is planned for spring, 2009. The first incarnation of the JBRP (March 2002), was incorporated into the Mississippi River Valley Project, with the support of the IL Arts Council, The NEA, Quad City Arts and many others. The project welcomed home and honored internationally respected artist, whose roots began along the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities. The first Restoration Project embraced Bill Bell, Franz Jackson, Francis Clay and Donald Meade by showcasing the talents and personal accomplishments of these native sons to young and old at grade schools, college campuses and art galleries. JBRP inspired a new generation of fans and artist alike while reconnecting four of our nation’s treasures with those who had witnessed the progression of their artistry.

The Jazz and Blues Restoration Project, which evolved as a group of community-based arts organizations, up-graded a long term working relationship into a merger with the Quad City Jazz Festival, LTD (formerly the Louie Bellson Jazz Festival, LTD) a 501(c) 3 organization and began doing business as Polyrhythms.