In the early 1900′s [African Americans] began to play and sign what could easily be recognized as the precursor to modern blues. Their blues were derived from and based on “field hollers” or traditional work songs found in African American slave communities in the south. This makes the blues one of the few uniquely American genres of music. Obviously based on African heritage, the genre rose to prominence as an accessible form of self-expression in the African American community. Via The Evolution of Different Blues Styles
Blues Kids is an internationally recognized, multicultural, interdisciplinary artist-in-residence music program. Blues Camp gives student musicians (ages 12-18) a chance to truly experience Blues—the root of American music.
Fernando Jones is a self-taught musician[…]. He began performing, playing the guitar, and writing songs when he was four years old. [Today] Jones is a professor at Columbia College Chicago, founder of Blues Kids of America, and is the author of “I Was There When the Blues Was Red Hot.”
Jones says: “We provide these Blues Kids a priceless hands-on experience they can’t get anywhere else, with professional instruction, culminating in a full concert showcasing their talent.” The Blues Kids Summer Camp will be held June 18 – 23, 2012. This one-of-a-kind camp is offered free to students and represents the only west coast camp location of its kind.
Jones emphasizes that his camp is free because he simply wants student musicians that are interested in studying the Blues to be properly afforded the opportunity to do so under the direction of professional practitioners without prejudice . . . regardless of their family’s socio-economic condition. Student musicians that are accepted, after the audition, process will receive scholarships (value range $750 – $1,000) for admission to Blues Camp.
Blues Kids is an experience designed to teach students literacy through music with a focus on the Blues. From this tailored experience, students will learn the importance and power of discipline, teamwork, and goal-setting in a cooperative learning group.
Last year after the camp’s grand finale (a full blues concert played by the students and an awards ceremony celebrating their experience) a few fortunate Blues Kids continued with their adventure. Mr. Jones let students know that all Blues Kids were always welcome at any of the camps held in Chicago, Austin, or Corona. Wishing the Corona experience to continue, Mr. Jones and the Blues Kids Foundation invited several of our southern California talent, including three Corona residents, to attend the Chicago camp held July 11- 16. What an amazing gift.
Blues Camp
- Cost: Free for Student Musicians age 12-18
- Dates: Audition Online by midnight, Saturday May 5th
Traditional Audition Saturday May 12th - Place: Fender Center
365 Main St. Corona, CA [MAP]
RSVP @ BluesKids.com or call 773-841-5262
More information Blues Kids Audition and Blues Kids Camp June 18-23
