Nikola Clay is doing a 25 city “Give Peace a Dance” educational and performance tour across California in July and August of 2015. To find an event near you, click here. To learn more about the Give Peace a Chance events and/or schedule one in your school or community, contact Nikola at: click here.

Nikola Clay began her artistic journey as a Music Major at UCSD, with piano as her primary instrument. It was there that her passion for World Music and Dance was ignited. After leaving there she taught piano, played in jazz ensembles and taught music in various schools for many years while pursuing her love of African Music and Dance.

Her studies took her to New York, Europe and eventually to West Africa where she studied with many great masters. Since then she has been invited to present workshops at several National Conferences for Music and Dance teachers.

Nikola produced two CD's and 2 DVD's of West African rhythms and dance with drummer Jason Hann and Master Dancer Abdoulaye Camara. She also is the creator of the "Primitive Percussion Kit", a hands-on learning tool for developing rhythm skills.

During her travels throughout the world Nikola gained experience in a variety of traditional folk dances. Currently she teaches children of all ages "Dance Around the World". Her philosophy is that if children start early on to experience various cultures through music and dance, they will grow up with an appreciation for diversity. Hence the slogan "Give Peace a Dance."

To learn more about Nikola Clay and the programs and music she and her colleagues offer, please visit: http://www.danceordie.us/

Nikola extends a special thanks to Pam Greer for her contribution to this article.