VSU to host Czech Roma music group

Valdosta State University will host a night of traditional Gypsy songs and dance, on April 8, at 7 p.m., in the University Center Magnolia Room.

The Roma group, from the Czech Republic, began performing in 1991 and was developed from a children's group. The members, three women and six men, sing and dance to traditional Gypsy music from Eastern Slovakia. The group strives to maintain the authenticity and simplicity of each arrangement.

?This is an opportunity to hear a musical group that represents a culture that is very little known in our area,? said Dr. Tracy Harrington, director of VSU's Center for International Programs, ?We really encourage the community to come out and hear this group.?

The group is performing throughout Georgia, and VSU is one of eight University System of Georgia institutions hosting the musical group. Georgia College and State University's International Education is sponsoring the performance, with the assistance of a grant from the University System of Georgia's Global Partnership.

For more information, contact Dr. Tracy Harrington or David Starling, VSU's Center for International Programs, at 229-333-7410.