In 2010, the Blues Foundation was expanded to include international the support and promotion of Blues youth music and education. This Year the Washington Blues Society (WBS | wablues.org) has pursued the same goal of educating our area’s young people about the rich heritage and traditions of Blues through a number of programs. WBS commits to produce and sponsor a dozen music education and Blues
concerts or event each year. Teachers and parent groups supporting the WBS and these event provide the crucial links to keeping the future of this American originated roots and music alive and well. All participants in Washington State and beyond are invited to bring their students to free concerts featuring Blues, Jazz, Americana, Folk, and Zydeco music. Many slots are available for budding and established youth groups (20 and under) performing music in these genres. A presentation on the History of Blues and concerts featuring accomplished musicians are made available to all interested youth in a music education or performance program. Specialized instruction in performance, technique, and theory is given to participants as well. We have been assisted in these efforts by Seattle's Rock School Blues in the Schools, Seattle Teen Music, and Seattle's Drum School. Through the generosity of Washington Blues Society, we have been able to sponsor Blues clinics for youth in collaboration with the Centrum Foundation. Funds received from these two non-profit corporate sponsors also allowed us to participate in procuring musical instruments and opportunities in our community providing students, who might not otherwise be able to, an opportunity to perform as emerging artists and composers (including the representation for the state of Washington in the annual International Blues Challenge. See blues.org). Helping us is truly Keeping the Blues Alive!
