Teaching Artists

Zar Electrik

Join members of Zar Electrik for an immersive, cross-cultural musical workshop exploring the intersection of Maghreb traditions, West African rhythms, and electronic music. Drawing from the rich heritage of Gnawa spiritual music, participants will dive into the trance-based rituals, instrumentation (like the guembri, oud, and kora), and rhythmic foundations rooted in ternary and syncopated patterns. The workshop includes hands-on rhythm and percussion work, melodic and choral arrangements, and an introduction to electronic sound design through MAO (computer-assisted music). Culminating in a collaborative performance, students will share the stage with the artists for a powerful, genre-blending live set that brings together tradition and innovation.

Making Movies

A psychedelic Latin band redefining folklore for a new generation, Making Movies blends classic rock energy with the vibrant rhythms of the Americas—rumba, cumbia, mambo, and more. Their music pulses with a sense of discovery, evoking deep cultural roots while sounding refreshingly new. Known for their powerful live performances and genre-blurring collaborations, they channel the rebellious spirit of Latin American tradition into something singular and unforgettable. Expect a sound that’s both familiar and thrillingly unexpected—music that moves the body and stirs the soul.

Music in Common

Music In Common creates powerful, connection-driven performances that bridge divides through music and dialogue. With a repertoire drawn from nearly 100 original songs written in collaborative programs around the world, their shows blend live music with storytelling to inspire empathy, hope, and unity. From intimate gatherings to major festival stages, each performance invites audiences into a shared experience that transcends boundaries and celebrates common ground.

Quraishi Roya

This class, led by Afghan-American rubab master Quraishi, offers students a deep dive into the history, technique, and cultural role of Afghanistan’s
national instrument, the rubab. With roots in classical Afghan and Hindustani music, Quraishi brings decades of experience passed down through his family and enriched by years of performance and study. Students will explore fundamental techniques, melodic structures, and regional styles—from Kabul’s
classical tradition to the folk influences of Herat and Kandahar. The course also highlights the rubab’s unique voice in Afghan music culture, including its role in poetry, storytelling, and traditional ensembles.

Secret Agent 23 Skidoo

Secret Agent 23 Skidoo is a Grammy winning hip-hop artist, songwriter and performer who has rocked shows around the globe. Along the way, he found that passing the torch to as many kids as possible was the best way to spread light. He created a workshop called RHYMES OF PASSAGE in which he guides each participant through writing and performing their own original rhymes. And by teaching through a rites of passage lens, Skidoo helps kids learn to access their own creativity, and then overcome their fears and raise their voices loud and proud in front of a crowd. Come check out what it’s all about!

Firas Zreik

Explore the beauty of Arabic rhythms and Maqam scales with Kanun player and composer Firas Zreik! A boundary-pushing composer and kanun virtuoso, Firas redefines the role of the traditional instrument within contemporary music. Rooted in the Maqam tradition yet fearlessly experimental, his work bridges cultures and genres, weaving microtonal soundscapes with emotional depth and technical mastery. Equally at home in orchestrated compositions or improvised settings, his performances are immersive, intimate, and transformative—offering a dynamic exploration of identity, emotion, and innovation.

LEAF Kono Band

The LEAF Kono band blends African drumming rhythms with a diverse collection of influences from blues, soul, and funk, creating a dynamic and uplifting sound that resonates with energy and optimism. Their performances are a celebration of life, joy, and resilience, incorporating intricate percussion patterns, soulful melodies, and harmonies that transport audiences to different corners of the globe. Alongside these infectious beats, the band is deeply inspired to celebrate community, and inclusivity. Band members are resident artists at LEAF Global Arts and curate their classes based on school and student needs.

The Change

The Change is a group of musicians who came together when they were in middle school. They spent their school years touring the country spreading
a message of hope and inclusivity. They first played LEAF festival in 2015. They all ended up falling in love with the community and all the members
moved to Asheville and became a permanent part of LEAF as resident teaching artists. They each have their own projects now and are coming together for a reunion for the 30 LEAF Festival.

LEAF International AllStars

LEAF International AllStars is a combination of LEAF International culture keepers + youth alumni. Representing Haiti, Costa Rica, Tanzania, and
Guatemala, the LEAF AllStars are combining their teaching styles for a cultural immersion residency, featuring drum, dance, and storytelling. This residency
provides a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experience and the richness of different cultures. Combining Haitian roots with elements of
West African & Latin rhythms, prepare to experience the exhilarating spirit and amazing resilience that happens when cultures connect.

Nicholas Hope

Nicholas Hope is known as a humble musician with a deep respect for his craft. Nik was born in High Point, NC, in a home filled with jazz, soul, and more genres originating from Black music styles. With this influence and a natural musical talent, he was drawn to finding his instrument. He was known to have a hyper energy often too intense for others. He considered other instruments, but when he picked up drumsticks, a spark radiated and a lifelong expression
began. He attended and played in the marching band for TW Andrews High School.

While in high school, he earned a scholarship to the Greensboro Music Academy where his talents were nurtured, and he was able to grow as a percussionist and drummer. He was the first recipient of the John Coltrane scholarship, which allowed him to study music at Appalachian State University. There, he was a member of the percussion and jazz ensembles, and was the drum kit player for the university’s steel pan band. After graduating college, he focused on developing as a professional drummer for a number of touring bands. For the past 26 years, Nik has toured across the United States and internationally from Caribbean Islands to Western Europe and to Japan to perform for a USO program.

Nik lives in Asheville, where he continues to play with several local and touring acts and with his primary band, Empire Strikes Brass. He enjoys teaching and giving drum clinics for youths and adults. Sharing his talents and helping others develop their skills is a deep passion for Nik. He is thrilled to join LEAF Global Arts to spread the medicine of music and culture, and to broaden drumming
opportunities for local youths.

Nani Orsillo

Nani’s journey in the world of hula began at the tender age of four, deeply rooted in her native Hawaiian heritage from the island of Oʻahu. Her love for her culture, language, and dance has only grown stronger over the years, and her dedication to preserving and sharing the beauty of her traditions is evident in her performances at festivals. An accomplished performer, Nani is also a passionate teacher. She dedicates her time to instructing hula in her community, ensuring that the art form continues to thrive among new generations. As a professional hula and Polynesian entertainer, Nani brings the spirit of Hawaii to audiences far and wide, captivating them with her graceful movements and profound connection to her roots.

Arturo Chavez

Meet Arturo Chavez, bachata instructor from Mexico City, and a lover of Latin rhythms and dance history. He’s dedicated to elevating bachata in Asheville and connecting dancers through movement. Let’s dance together!