A benefit the Austin Area Commission for the Arts enjoys offering our community is free opportunities to enjoy the arts. We are excited to continue the partnership with Riverside Concerts of Rochester with two additional free concerts in July as part of their World Music Series.

More than 100 people attended the Extreme Guitar Duo concert in June, and we hope even more will attend the upcoming events. At 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, we will feature Noura Mint Seymali, otherwise known as the Diva of Mauritania. Her music is best described as a unique style of Afropop that blends traditional Mauritanian music and pop. Rather than trying to explain exactly how the music sounds, we encourage everyone to visit our website at www.austinareaarts.org and check out a video of her performance.

Then at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, we will present Moscow Nights. This award winning group exposes audiences to authentic Russian music and dance.

Each of these hour long performances include both demonstrations and educational information about the artists and their work. Help us continue to offer free arts opportunities by donating to the Austin Area Commission for the Arts.

You can become a member to help with ongoing operations, support the ArtWorks Center capital campaign, and even become a sponsor of the Austin ArtWorks Festival. Donations can be made online at www.austinareaarts.org or by mailing a check to 125 Fourth Ave. NE, Austin.