Swan Strings

Another one. 🏆✨

Behind the Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture just took home Best Documentary at the Texas Short Film Festival in Austin.

This film started with a mission—to shift the narrative and amplify Black women in guitar culture—and to see it continue to be recognized on this level is powerful.

What began as a story rooted in our community has grown into something much bigger than us. And we’re still building.

Thank you to everyone who has supported, shown up, and believes in this work. This is for the culture. 🦢✨

South Dallas Cultural Center Music Lounge Powered by Swan Strings 🦢✨

Join us for an intimate Music Lounge evening at the South Dallas Cultural Center featuring ZYAH, a classically trained pianist turned singer-songwriter who has gained recognition through major songwriting credits with Grammy nominated artists and Emmy and Oscar nominated tv & film placements.

She is now independently re-launching her solo artist career, focusing on alternative/Faith-based R&B.

Presented in partnership with Swan Strings, the Music Lounge series creates welcoming, accessible concert experiences while supporting free music education and community-based arts programming in South Dallas. Seating is limited to preserve the intimate atmosphere. All are welcome—come as you are and enjoy an evening of soulful sound and connection.

Swan Strings is a 501c3 nonprofit organization providing free music education, community concerts and sound therapy services to North Texas individuals without access.

The first 20 seats are free admission with registration. All seats are general admission. Limited seating available. Walk ins are welcome but priority will be given to registrants. All others will be waitlisted. Donations will help support free music education in South Dallas.

No refunds. We will also be accepting instrument donations.

RSVP link in bio. 🔗
For more information please visit swanstrings.com.

🚪 Doors at 8:00 PM
🎙️ ZYAH at 8:30 PM

We’re excited to announce that our film “Behind the Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture” will be screening at the Texas Short Film Festival in Austin this weekend. The film is being considered for Best Documentary and Most Inspirational Film awards.

After our first Behind the Strings: Music Symposium this past weekend, it feels great to hit the road to Austin again for another film screening. Thanks to everyone who came out last week, see you in Austin! 🤠🎸

Thanks KERA Arts! 🎸

“Behind the Strings” brings Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s legacy to life in Downtown Dallas A new Dallas music symposium honors the godmother of rock ‘n’ roll while spotlighting the overlooked contributions of Black women in blues, gospel and American music.

🎸✨We’re honored to have Dallas-based vocalist, guitarist, and educator Kierra Gray Thomas as part of Behind the Strings: Music Symposium — amplifying the legacy and living impact of Black women in guitar culture.

Kierra will be assisting in our free guitar workshop, sharing her knowledge and artistry with the next generation. You’ll also see her featured in the film Behind the Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture, and live on stage performing alongside Jess Garland — recreating a powerful scene from the film in real time.

Beyond the stage, Kierra’s work spans projects including King Kie, We Them Grays, Cure For a Paranoia, and The Institute, reflecting a dynamic and evolving presence in Dallas’ music scene.

Her work embodies what this gathering is all about — community, lineage, and transformation through music.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience.

📍 Saturday, March 21 | ⏰ 12 PM–6 PM🎶
Free + open to the community (registration required at swanstrings.com)

It’s only right for a guitar event to be the pick of the week.😜🥁

Thank you for selecting the Behind the Strings: Music Symposium! 🙌🏽🎸

Join us for a free community gathering featuring a guitar workshop, keynote speaker, film screening, musical tribute and panel discussion in Downtown Dallas’ Arts District.

Saturday, March 21st from 12 PM-6 PM at St. Paul United Methodist Church! Registration is required. 🦢

Happy Birthday to these beautiful Black women in music! We are grateful to have you all on the team! 🎸