Our Mission is to Connect Audiences with African Artists and Cultures Through Performance and Education.

Our Story

Crocodile River Music was established in 2011 by Zach Combs and Issa Coulibaly to support African artists in presenting music, dance, and art that both educates and connects audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and capabilities.

In 2012, we launched the African Arts in Education program, allowing us to extend our reach to schools and community groups. This program has served over 200,000 students in its first ten years, leaving a lasting impact through interactive workshops, compelling performances, and engaging school residencies.

Today as a Worcester-based nonprofit organization, our offerings - including concerts, workshops, lectures, and other educational programs - showcase emerging and established African artists to inform, connect, and inspire audiences.

African Arts for All

Our dynamic programming is designed to expand access to African arts for all.

Schools

Community
Programs

Cultural
Organizations

Arts Festivals

Community Partners

Board of Directors

  • Carolyn Crane

    Boylston, MA;
    Board Chair,
    Independent Artist
    (3 year term, 2022 - 2025)

  • Rich Ardizzone

    Worcester, MA;
    Board Treasurer,
    Joy of Music Program, Associate Director (Retired)
    (3 year term, 2023 - 2026)

  • Jean Borgatti, PhD

    Shrewsbury, MA;
    Fitchburg Art Museum, Consulting Curator - Global Africa, First Peoples
    (3 year term, 2023 - 2026)

  • Rala Cocco, PhD

    Fitchburg, MA;
    Fitchburg State University Professor, Humanities Department
    (3 year term, 2024 - 2027)

  • Jeffrey Gribouski, Esq.

    Northborough, MA;
    Bowditch and Dewey, Associate
    (3 year term 2023-2026)

  • Honee Hess

    Worcester, MA;
    Worcester Center for Crafts, Executive Director (Retired)
    (3 year term, 2022 - 2025)

  • Munya Munochiveyi, PhD

    Princeton, MA; 
    College of the Holy Cross
    (3 year term 2025 - 2028)

  • Wanjiru Nganga

    Worcester, MA;
    Century Home Care, Assistant Administrator
    (3 year term, 2024 - 2027)

  • John S. Yormie, Jr.

    Worcester, MA;
    African Community Education, Program Coordinator
    (3 year term, 2022 - 2025)

Bring our high-energy, interactive concerts, workshops, and
educational programs to your community.

Contact us to schedule your performance.