Twice a year, WBGO 88.3 makes it its mission to get kids be boppin’ and scatting with its Kids Jazz Concert Series. Profressional jazz musicians entertain and teach families about the distinct and cultural qualities of jazz. My family has enjoyed the concerts held at MAM.
On October 6 at 12:30 pm, the Fall Series concerts kick off at Clinton Elementary School in Maplewood with drummer Mauricio de Souza. Here’s the info, as well, as the other WBGO Kids Jazz Concert Series concerts this fall:
Mauricio de Souza on Saturday, October 6 at Clinton Elementary School, 27 Berkshire Road, Maplewood, NJ
Drummer Mauricio de Souza will explain how American jazz influenced Brazilian music and how the two were combined to create Bossa Nova. Musicians will demonstrate how their instruments work & fit into the music. They will perform examples of Bossa Nova, Samba & Baiao & explain where these styles originated. Kids can clap to the various rhythms & talk about the composers.
Maurice Chestnut on Saturday, October 13 at Newark Symphony Hall,1020 Broad Street, Newark, NJ
This performance will feature musicians along with tap dancer Maurice Chestnut. Chestnut will dance and explain how jazz and tap blend together.
Antonio Hart on Saturday, October 20 at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Newark Museum, 49 Washington Street, Newark, NJ
Saxophonist Antonio Hart presents a tribute to the late saxophonist and Newark native, James Moody with songs and instruments showcasing Moody’s versatility as a musician.
Lakecia Benjamin on Saturday, October 27 at SOPAC, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, NJ
This program will explore the role jazz has played in people’s lives. While it is a very sophisticated music, it also has served as entertainment and dance music for generations. Benjamin will explain four basic jazz rhythms: the stomp clap, shuffle beat, swing pattern and the modern funk beat. Throughout the program she will demonstrate how these rhythms are integrated into the styles of the past and today.
All concerts begin at 12:30 PM, and last for approximately one hour. Tickets are handed out in the lobby of each venue on the day of performance only and on a first-come, first-served basis. The concerts are free and open to the general public. Adults must be accompanied by a child. Please arrive 30 minutes early to ensure seating.