Our Mission is to Connect Audiences with African Artists and Cultures Through Performance and Education.
Our Story
Crocodile River Music was established in 2011 by Zach Combs and Issa Coulibaly to support African artists in presenting music, dance, and art that both educates and connects audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and capabilities. Crocodile River Music proudly derives our name from Bamako, the capital city of Mali, which means “crocodile river“ in Bambara, one of Mali’s many languages.
In 2012, we launched the African Arts in Education program, allowing us to extend our reach to schools and community groups. This program has served over 330,000 students, leaving a lasting impact through interactive workshops, compelling performances, and engaging school residencies.
Today as a Worcester-based nonprofit organization, our offerings - including concerts, workshops, lectures, and other educational programs - showcase emerging and established African artists to inform, connect, and inspire audiences.
African Arts for All
Our dynamic programming is designed to expand access to African arts for all.
Schools
Community
Programs
Cultural
Organizations
Arts Festivals
FY 2025 Annual Report
Our Growth, Donors, Engagements, and more are highlighted here in our Annual Report
Community Partners
Board of Directors
Rala Cocco, PhD
Fitchburg, MA;
Board Chair
Fitchburg State University
(3 year term, 2024 - 2027)
Rich Ardizzone
Worcester, MA;
Board Treasurer,
Joy of Music Program
(3 year term, 2026 - 2029)
Carolyn Crane
Boylston, MA;
Board Clerk
(3 year term, 2025 - 2028)
Jean Borgatti
Shrewsbury, MA;
Fitchburg Art Museum
(3 year term, 2026 - 2029)
Jeffrey Gribouski, Esq.
Northborough, MA;
Robinson+Cole
(3 year term 2026-2029)
Munya Munochiveyi, PhD
Princeton, MA;
The College of the Holy Cross
(3 year term, 2025 - 2028)
Sha-Asia Medina
Worcester, MA;
The Village Worcester
(3 year term, 2026 - 2029)
Wanjiru Nganga
Worcester, MA;
Century Home Care
(3 year term, 2024 - 2027)
Alison Okuda, PhD
Marlborough, MA;
Worcester State University
(3 year term, 2026 - 2029)
John S. Yormie, Jr.
Worcester, MA;
African Community Education
(3 year term, 2025 - 2028)
Bring our high-energy, interactive concerts, workshops, and
educational programs to your community.
Contact us to schedule your performance.