Presentations & Lectures
To book Gaye click here.The History of Women in the Blues
Gaye traces the history of blues women from the 1920s to today. She
shares video and/or audio clips from Bessie Smith to Billie Holiday, from
Rosetta Tharpe to Big Mama Thornton, from Etta Baker to Etta James
and many others. She illuminates how the history of working class black
women is documented in blues lyrics. Musically, she highlights the many
vocal techniques (wails, syncopation, phrasing, growls, etc.) that are used
that give drama and immediacy to the performances of blues women.
This presentation runs 1 1/2 to 2 hours. However, it can be presented as a
full length course with in-depth information and more listening experiences.
See the brochure for more information. (PDF)
History of Women in The Blues
Civil Rights and Civil Wrongs
An engaging speech about the past, the present, and hopes for the future. Gaye shares her first-hand experiences and insights in the struggle for equality, from embracing the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, sitting and picketting, to the Black Power Movement and Malcom X, in order to find her own path on the journey to self-acceptance, empowerment and freedom. This thought-provoking and insightful lecture can be custom tailored from a time of 20 minutes to 2 hours (with facilitated discussion following the speech).
Civil Rights and Civil Wrongs
Gay Rights Versus Civil Rights
Gaye traces her personal journey in the fight for equal rights. Many activists in today's struggle for GLBT equality often compare this fight to that of black people during the civil rights movement of the '60s. Many blacks, in turn, feel that members of the GLBT community haven't nearly suffered the same oppression – the loss of roots, language and culture. Having been involved in both struggles, Gaye is able to present a unique and personal interpretation. This speech can run from 20 minutes to 2 hours (with facilitated discussion following the speech).
Gay Rights vs. Civil Rights - Similarities and Differences
Motivation for Educators
Gaye Adegbalola was an educator in the public school system for 18 years, and honored as Virginia State Teacher of the Year. Primarily an eighth grade science teacher, she also designed and taught gifted and talented programs from its inception. She has extensive experience in "teaching teachers how to teach." Recently, Gaye has been called upon to inspire educators - as a motivational speaker for school openings and in-services. She recognizes the worth and the challenges of various instructional departments and incorporates much needed humor in her reflections on teaching. Often she will conclude her speeches with songs, including the Saffire favorite: "School Teacher's Blues."
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