There’s no better way to get in touch with your roots than music. While growing up with a last name starting with Mc, I was drawn to all things Scottish, whether it was music or some kind of tartan covered tchotchke. It was meant to be when my sixth grade teacher was a bagpiper who would entertain a class of surly 12 year olds on afternoons when we’d finished our work.

Later, I attended a high school with a Scottish mascot and a pipe band and learned to play. My younger brother followed suit by becoming a pipe band drummer and my younger sister became a highland dancer. We were a matched set, albeit a nerdy one.

I continued to play for 14 years, until I had my first child. I was even fortunate enough to compete in Scotland. Luckily you don’t have to travel far to experience the music of the cultures in Bellevue, because the library is bringing them to you.

The patrons of the Bellevue Library have been enjoying a series called Bellevue Rhythm and Roots, which has featured groups performing music from the Balkans, songs in a variety of languages. The final performances of this series will celebrate India, West Africa and Japan. All programs have been sponsored by the Bellevue Friends of the Library.

Please join us at the Bellevue Library for the following performances:

• The Rhythms of India Celebrate Diwali, Saturday, Nov. 1, 4 p.m.

• Mohammed Shaibu & Soyaya: Music from West Africa, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2 p.m.

• Taiko: Japanese Drumming, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2 p.m.

The city of Bellevue is a culturally rich community. Bring your friends and family and learn about your neighbors through the music of their cultures. By exploring West African music or Taiko drumming you may decide to learn more about the instruments. I warn you, music is an addictive endeavor, and it doesn’t always require a kilt.

Darcy Brixey is the teen services librarian at the Bellevue Library. She’d like to tell you she loves to read, but it’s an expectation of the job.