The Secoyas are an ethnic minority of the Upper Napo Region of the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest, numbering approximately 350 people in Ecuador and 350 in Perú. Their name, Secoya, means “People from the Multi-Colored River,” and, in some cases, they are referred to as the “People of a Thousand Colors.”

John Medeski and his wife Debi Medeski have spent two years trying to bring Secoyas representatives to their Upstate New York home area. The Medeskis have accomplished their goal and will celebrate with a Benefit Concert for the Secoyas of the Equadorian Rainforest at Marlboro, NY’s The Falcon this Sunday, October 9.

As they explain, “The evening will feature a very special night of music featuring five acclaimed musicians and a rare performance of indigenous music by the Secoya elders, as well as a presentation about the Secoyas and their land and a silent auction of goods and services offered by a variety of local businesses. The Secoya elders will be there to visit with people and answer any questions.”

Medeski’s group for the evening will bring together saxophonist Bill Evans (Miles Davis, Soulbop, Soulgrass), drummer Billy Martin and bassist Mike Rivard (Club D’Elf, Shawn Colvin, Hassan Hakmoun). Philippe Pascal Garnier will also join in on crystal singing bowls while Steven Bachmann on will play didgeridoo. Dinner and drinks will also be available for purchase, and the evening will feature a silent auction.