Richard Adrianowicz and I (Peter Kasin) will be presenting a one-hour program of "Chanteys: The African American and Caribbean Connection" this Saturday, February 27, 1-2pm in the shelterdeck of the 1886 saquare rigged ship Balclutha, Hyde Street pier, San Francisco. One of several programs SF Maritime National Historical Park is presenting for African American History month. The cost is simply the admission fee for boarding ships at the pier: Adults, $5, ages 15 and under, free. Free with national park passes.Boarding tickets are good for 7 days from date of purchase. No reservations needed.

We will be beginning with Georgia Sea Islands hauling chanteys, going to the Black and Irish combination in chanteying of the 1840's, music of Great Lakes Black sailors, stevedoring chanteys, West Indies whalers rowing songs, and chanteys of menhaden fishermen of the U.S. East Coast. Everyone's invited to sing on the choruses. Information: 415-447-5000, or post here. Hope to see local and visiting 'Catters there.

-Chanteyranger