This will be a “do not miss” historic event in our studio. Although we engage with musicians every semester in studio masterclasses, this event will not only be about the American Indigenous music we are studying for our end of year showcase recital. We will have an open discussion with Dr. Shadle on understanding the history of American Indigenous culture, then and now. Charles’s great-grandmother was part of the Trail of Tears forced migration from the Southern East Coast of the United States to Oklahoma. One of the things most precious to her, that she brought with her, on this arduous 4 month journey, was her book of music hymns. Three of our students will work with Mr. Shadle on the piano movements from his Choctaw Animals. Our students will also want to share their work on American Indigenous music for the piano.