Leyla McCalla Named 2025–26 Artist-in-Residence at the Cali School of Music
Posted in: Cali News
The John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University is proud to announce that acclaimed Haitian-American musician Leyla McCalla will join the school as Artist-in-Residence for the 2025–26 academic year.
Born in New York City to Haitian emigrants and activists, McCalla draws deep inspiration from her heritage, channeling three centuries of history into music that transcends boundaries. A master of the cello, tenor banjo, and guitar, McCalla sings in English, French, and Haitian Kreyòl and has developed a distinctive sound rooted in classical training, American folk, and Haitian cultural traditions.
McCalla first rose to prominence as a member of the Grammy Award-winning string band Carolina Chocolate Drops, and later as a founding member of Our Native Daughters (with Rhiannon Giddens, Amythyst Kiah, and Allison Russell). Her solo work continues to garner wide acclaim for its emotional depth and cultural insight. Her latest album, Sun Without the Heat (ANTI-, 2025), reflects the tension and joy of personal transformation.
Throughout her residency, McCalla will mentor students, collaborate across disciplines, and present performances and workshops as part of the Cali Immersive Residency Program. Her presence offers Cali School students a rare opportunity to engage with a genre-defying artist whose work speaks to identity, resistance, and legacy.
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About the Artist: Visit leylamccalla.com to explore her music and story.
We are incredibly excited to welcome Leyla McCalla to the Cali School of Music. Her presence on campus will be a transformative experience for our students, faculty, and audiences alike. Through her artistry, authenticity, and commitment to storytelling, she brings a powerful and inspiring voice to our community. We look forward to a year of unforgettable performances, meaningful dialogue, and creative growth.