Caryn Cziriak, founder of Sprit Foli, has been a musician most of her life. She has taken joy in singing from a very young pre-school age, had classical vocal training, and has been performing as a singer for over 30 years. Notable performances include a European concert tour with the Centennial Madrigal Singers. She is Artistic Director of two performance groups, Patagun! Percussion & Vocal Ensemble and Inchantations Women's Vocal Ensemble.

Caryn has been drumming for about 10 years and studying African drumming specifically for the past 8 years. She has had classes and worshops with various teachers, including Pete Barnhart, Ubaka Hill, Edwina Lee Tyler, Moussa Traore, Mohamed Camara, Menes Yahudah of Tam Tam Mandingue (Mamady Keita's school of West African drumming), and master drummers Mamady Keita, and Famoudou Konate.

In her African drumming classes, Caryn teaches traditional West African rhythms for djembe and dununs, as well as some non-traditional rhythms, in a way that makes even beginning drummers feel at ease. She also regularly facilitates a community drum circle at Pebble Hill Church in Doylestown, PA, which is a great introduction for people who are new to drumming and would like to try it.

Caryn has studied the sacred use of sound in various cultures, and has facilitated Sacred Sound Circles and Chant Meditation workshops since 1998. She composes her own sacred chants and songs in styles which range from classical Latin mass to rhythmic kirtan, to a combination of jazz and gospel.

A personal message from Caryn ~
I believe that music is a powerful vehicle for bringing about positive change in the world. With Spirit Foli, my intention is to support the spiritual and cultural evolution of humanity through uplifting music which promotes peace, harmony and celebration of diversity. Much of the music I have written and perform is spiritual in nature, inclusive of various world religions and music of Universal Spirit - which is my name for the conscious presence that most cultures and religions call God, Allah, Jehovah, and many other names. I aim to present music that everyone can enjoy regardless of their individual religion or spiritual path, and that will bring to people a deep personal experience of the Divine. I also have a special love for African rhythms and music, and the way music is woven as an integral part into everyday life in African culture. This is apparent in concerts with my two performance groups, which usually include numerous African rhythms and songs.

I also feel very strongly that the joy of creating music should not be reserved only for "musicians", but should be available for everyone to experience. Out of my desire to share this joy, I provide a variety of participatory drumming, rhythm, chant, and sound meditation experiences. I invite you to join me in the celebration of life through rhythm and song!     ~ Caryn Cziriak, Spirit Foli