Oliver Lake, the musical curator of City of Asylum’s annual Jazz-Poetry Concert, is gathering community members to talk about life in the Northside at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 21.

The meeting will be at the Young Men’s and Women’s African Heritage Association, 1205 Boyle St.

Another meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, January 24 at the City of Asylum, 330 Sampsonia Way.

Lake wants to talk to Northsiders as part of his upcoming Artists Residency at City of Asylum. He wants to hear thoughts, ideas and stories to create works of music, poetry and art that will later be made available to the public.

Lake is an internationally acclaimed saxophonist and composer, as well as an accomplished poet and visual artist. The murals on City of Asylum’s Jazz House, 320 Sampsonia Way, are based on his work.

The events are free, but space is limited. To reserve a spot, email Julie Tvaruzek at julie.tvaruzek@cityofasylumpittsburgh.org.

When reserving, please include your name, number of people in your party and the date you wish to attend.

Lake and City of Asylum need attendee’s permission to record the event. Permission to record and parent/guardian permission should be brought to the event, but forms will also be available at the meetings.