MANCHESTER, NH – It was all sunshine and good vibes as the City of Manchester and the Manchester School District partnered to host the first-ever Manchester Music & Jazz Festival. Beginning at noon on Saturday attendees enjoyed a block party-style festival with a rich lineup of musical performances showcasing a variety of regional musicians.
But the highlight of the event was the Manchester School District Student Showcase. For three days leading up to the festival, public school students participated in intensive music workshops led by guest faculty and professional musicians. Their hard work culminated in an energetic performance that spanned classics from Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk to contemporary jazz favorites.
Festival organizers emphasized how unique the event was for the city.
“To close down Hanover Street and give young, talented student musicians the opportunity to play outside the Rex Theatre is just an amazing opportunity,” said David Rousseau, Director of Sales & Marketing for the Palace Theatres.
Student musicians shared the stage with other seasoned musicians who performed throughout Saturday such as the Yellow House Blues Band, Soggy Po Boys and The Love Dogs.
That sentiment was echoed by others who noted how rare it is for schools to create opportunities like this.
“Other school districts don’t do this, private schools or charter schools don’t do this; Manchester schools do this,” said Ed Doyle, Director of Fine Arts for the Manchester School District.
Educators involved in the workshops were equally impressed with the turnout.
“It’s incredibly inspiring to see such young musicians playing at such a high level, and it’s a great credit to the quality of teaching in Manchester Public Schools,” said Ellen Roe, a University of Michigan instructor who taught during the three-day workshop.
While this was the festival’s debut year, the energy was electric, and many hope it will become a Manchester tradition. All proceeds were in support of the Manchester School District Music Programs.
