Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Potts.
It all started with a steelpan.
During a live performance using this native Trinidad percussion instrument, they witnessed how the once-unfamiliar sounds could energize people, opening them up to new adventures.
Culture, Arts & Music was founded by Matt, Christina Guerrero, and Anthony Jay Houston. As CAM president and an accomplished musician, Matthew conceived the idea based on personal experiences. While growing up in the northwest suburbs of Illinois in Crystal Lake, he discovered the steelpan. His passion for it only grew as he and his friends performed, where curious audience members asked them about these strange instruments. People wanted to learn the behind-the-music stories and Matt became inspired when educating them on Trinidad’s robust culture.
The playful rhythm of the steelpan; the powerful spark of curiosity.
Matt began incorporating other types of world percussion instruments, expanding the possibilities for more performances and learning. Eventually, he realized the idea was bigger than just a series of concerts — it represented a vision for a more connected world where diversity is cherished.
Fast forward to today. CAM staff coordinates community concerts, drum circles, festivals, and more. Residents of suburban Crystal Lake, Illinois, and the surrounding area crave opportunities to experience diversity firsthand. Unfortunately, they are few and far between in the beautiful bubble of suburbia. CAM creates community events and programs that champion different cultures, exposing people to world heritage.
Entertainment and education go hand-in-hand.
In addition to engaging the local community, CAM aims to work with youth to pick up where many schools leave off by designing immersive activities. Enabling children to experience diversity at a young age sets them up to be responsible, knowledgeable, and compassionate global citizens.
What started as an idea is now transforming into a movement.
They believe culture, arts, and music are pathways to the soul of the world. By leveraging all five senses, they have the ability to instantly transport people to different countries. It’s not just a concert or festival — it’s a walk through Trinidad. And Brazil. And South Africa. The list will grow with their community and supporters. Find it on a map; experience it lives through Culture, Arts & Music.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The biggest obstacle has been and continues to be, getting people to understand and appreciate different cultures instead of treating them as a novelty.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Culture, Arts & Music – what should we know?
Culture, Arts & Music envisions a world where all people understand and appreciate each other’s unique heritage. Every country has its own lively personality reflected in its people, steeped in rich history and tradition:
The vibrant reverberation of a steelpan from Trinidad.
The lightning-quick beat in the steps of the Brazilian Samba dance. The hearty and distinctly spicy taste of what — an Ethiopian stew.
Experiencing the cultures of different countries usually requires a passport, but not everyone has the means or ability to travel. By coordinating a range of cultural-awareness activities including musical performances and festivals, Culture, Arts & Music immerses the local community in the souls of other countries.
Culture, Arts & Music was founded with a deep understanding that diversity makes the world the beautiful tapestry that it is. Learning about other cultures is not only enriching, but it is also vital in an increasingly global society where people of all nations must work together to solve pressing challenges. Unfortunately, it’s something that schools alone cannot achieve; it requires more learning opportunities integrated into everyday life. The Culture, Arts & Music philosophy is to blend education with entertainment, providing people of all ages with fun opportunities to soak up the unique styles, flavors, and heritage of the world.
We bring people together around the activities that make us most appreciate being human — Culture, Arts & Music — to create a more connected global community.
Culture, Arts & Music the only organization in Illinois that offers private and group steelpan lessons, community performance opportunities, and an opportunity to learn how to build and tune the steelpan in addition to community events like drum circles, festivals, and concerts.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Anthony Jay Houston
Christina Guerrero
They both helped start and run Culture, Arts & Music.
Jim Potts for helping us get our facility.
Vinnie Foglia for our first major contribution.
Pricing:
- Community steelband $150/term (~15 weeks)
- Steelpan $695
- Community performance $700
Contact Info:
- Address: 1039 Wanda Lane
Woodstock, IL 60098 - Website: https://cultureartsmusic.org/
- Phone: 815-575-8587
- Email: info@cultureartsmusic.com
- Instagram: cam_chicago
- Facebook: CultureArtsMusic
- Twitter: cam_chicago
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