Education

The JSJBF Education Programs

Youth Projects

Currently the Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation is involved in two youth projects; the Youth Ensemble and The Mark LaRochelle Youth Open Mic.

Youth Ensemble

Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation launched the Youth Ensemble in 2014.  This educational project is for musical teens and pre-teens who want to expand their knowledge of how to play – or sing — jazz and blues.

it is a unique cooperative arrangement with JSJBF member Joseph Dalton, who is also the band director for St. John Vianney High School in Holmdel as well as the director of music for St. Pius Church, Lacey Township, Ocean County. Dalton, primarily a guitarist, has many years’ experience playing jazz and blues on a variety of musical instruments with nationally known acts, including Alabama,  Jerry Jemott,  Arlene Roth,  Johnny Rodriques and others.

The program is open to any teen or pre-teen [ ages 12-18 approximate ]  willing to make the commitment to learn more about how to play jazz and blues on their chosen instruments through twice-a-month rehearsals.  The new JSJBF Youth Ensemble will focus on getting students to play their instrument and sing, in small group and big band ensembles, while also preparing them to perform for the public.

The Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation plans eventual once-a-month concerts at St. John Vianney High School’s state-of-the-art auditorium or the Red Bank Women’s Club.   The youth ensemble plans to meet twice a month for 2nd and 4th Saturday rehearsals at St. John Vianney High School, 540 A-Line Road, Holmdel.   The cost per student is $75 for the year.

For more information and to get in on the ground floor of this exciting new youth project, call the Foundation office in Red Bank at (732) 933-1984. Contact us to request a Scholarship Application

The Mark LaRochelle Youth Open Mic Nights

The Youth Open Mic nigh was started by Mark LaRochelle. This event occurs one Friday night a month providing the musical youth community a forum to perform in a fun, supportive, friendly and inviting environment.

Any youth under the age of 21 is welcome to perform or attend. All are welcome to enjoy the music. The event is located at the Red Bank Women’s Club. Click here to find out more about these monthly Youth Open Mic nights.