ZepenG brings Haitian roots music to Casserly House at Roslindale PorchFest
Neighbors and friends dancing!
Sr. Nancy celebrates with the music
By Donna Stiglmeier, Director of Casserly House
September 13th, 2025
It was a beautiful day for dancing in the driveway! With a wonderful turnout, the Haitian roots music band ZepenG (pronounced zay-PONG) filled the neighborhood with a vibrant fusion of sounds. For the first time at Roslindale Porchfest, Casserly House welcomed ZepenG to perform on Saturday, September 13.
Our collaborative work with the City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Advancement resulted in the introduction of ZepenG and Casserly House. Over the years, all connected to Casserly House have the pleasure of engaging many Haitian neighbors and adult learners in our work, in addition to so many wonderful people from different countries. “Rooted in Boston, Open to the World.”
Romanes, my band contact, conveyed, with heartfelt gratitude, “such a joyful experience, showcasing how music has an incredible ability to bring our community together… transforming lives and fostering connection.” The saxophonist led us in a meaningful “call and response” in Haitian Creole. Each member of the band contributed their individual gifts to make a vibrant, more robust whole! We were invited to contribute our part, for a greater whole! Cornell Coley, the leader of Afrika Gente Trio, the Casserly House band for two of our four Porchfests, was present and celebrated too!
Enjoy the pictures…if you were there, remember the vibe of so many people together, and get that dance back in your step and love in your heart!
Tim talking with Cornell
The Casserly House info table—connecting with the community