SPPS Soul: Tsimbina
Tsimbina Andrianaivo, a
2004 graduate of Arlington Senior High School, has an eclectic background that mirrors the Soullections cross-cultural music project he launches on Saturday at Mai Village.
In 2001, Tsimbina moved to Saint Paul from Madagascar and entered Arlington with very limited English skills.
Even though he struggled with writing and reading, he excelled in other areas so much that he was able to tutor classmates and graduate 8th in his class.
"It was kind of a blessing that I didn't have English on my side because I was able to strive for excellence in math and sciences. That really showed me what to study in college."
After Arlington, he completed his Computer Information Systems degree from Waldorf College and later obtained his MBA from Hamline University.
In addition to his tech savvy, Tsmbina finds joy in bringing people of different cultures together and envisioned Soullections back in 2010.
"Soullections' mission and vision is to use music to bridge and embrace differences. Soul music has the power to create harmony and we can use that power to connect people."
Each member of Soullections represents their mission of presenting diversity and challenging stereotypes of Soul music.
"Most people would think that an Asian guy and guy from Madagascar wouldn't know anything about soul, but the diversity of the players empowers, inspires and challenges each of us to share and master our crafts."
The launch of Soullections at Soul at the Village promises to be a night of good food, smooth jazz, neosoul and dancing at Mai Village.
Reserve your seat today by calling 651-290-2585 to hear great free music and support a Central Corridor restaurant.
