ONEIDA, NY — Central New York residents have a unique cultural experience coming their way this month. On Friday, June 19, the Oneida Family YMCA will host an interactive Cajun Music and Culture Workshop featuring world-renowned singer, songwriter, and acclaimed fiddle player Amanda Shaw.
The community event offers a rare chance to experience the authentic flavor, history, and rhythms of South Louisiana without leaving the local area. Attendees can expect a vibrant mix of storytelling, cultural education, and live musical demonstrations that showcase the heart of Cajun heritage.
About Amanda Shaw
Shaw’s musical journey started remarkably early. Beginning as a classical violin prodigy at just four years old, she made history at age eight as the youngest soloist ever to perform with the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. She later blended those classical roots with contemporary rock and traditional Cajun music, releasing nine albums and EPs over the course of her career.
Many may recognize her from national television and film. She has performed on Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, The Today Show, and CNN’s New Year’s Eve. Shaw also served as the principal narrator and musician for the IMAX documentary Hurricane on the Bayou, and starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie Stuck in the Suburbs, contributing to its soundtrack. Amanda is no stranger to the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley. She was an integral part of the Y’s recording project in the early 2000s, contributing “St. Louis Blues” to the work. She has also visited the childcare and music programs at the Y several times over the years. “We love Amanda,” said Hank Leo. “She has been such a wonderful resource for education and communication to our young kids enrolled in our before and after school program. Aside from her incredible talent, she is so kindhearted and inspirational. Her work with preserving the wetlands in Louisiana and bringing the importance to the forefront is important for all of us,” he added.
Her industry recognition includes winning the Big Easy Award for Best Female Entertainer, OffBeat Magazine’s Singer/Songwriter of the Year, and becoming a regular, record-breaking headliner at the iconic New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Event Details:
- What: Amanda Shaw’s Cajun Culture Workshop
- When: Friday, June 19th from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Where: Oneida Family YMCA, Oneida, NY
- Admission: Open to the public with no registration required.
For more details, community members can visit the member services desk at the Oneida Family YMCA, call 315-363-7788, or visit ymcatrivalley.org. To learn more about Amanda Shaw’s background and global touring schedule, visit amandashaw.com.
