Asbury Park Summer Music Camp 2013 to start August 26th

ASBURY PARK, N.J. - Aug. 21, 2013 - PRLog -- The non-profit organization, Jazz Arts Project is running a one-week head-start music camp for beginning instrumental music students entering middle school in Asbury Park, NJ. The program is taking place at the Boys & Girls Club and is offered free to all interested students. In its second year, this camp will offer individual and group Lessons, ensembles and workshops led by a specialized, expert staff experienced in music education and performance.

This program was initiated in the summer of 2012. It is designed as a head-start type of strategy to reach very young students with the gift of learning to make music. Students who participate in this summer program are able to continue their musical development as they enter the regular school year with a bit more knowledge and experience under their belt. Kids who can not afford or who have not yet purchased an instrument are given one to use during the summer session. Each child receives very specialized and personal attention and is offered the opportunity to try out different instruments in addition to their chosen one. Curriculum has been developed and course materials, sheet music and supplies are all provided. Students get private lessons each day as well as group lessons in music theory, keyboard instruction and group band rehearsals.

Jazz Arts Project Artistic Director Joe Muccioli describes the importance of the program, saying, “Studies have consistently shown that participation in instrumental music enhances performance in academic studies, improves student attendance and graduation rates, and builds confidence, self worth, responsibility, social interaction skills, and a sense of community involvement. The study of Music can truly change a life for the better.“

The program is funded in part by a special grant by the NJ State Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit Program (NRTC) as administered by Interfaith Neighbors of Asbury Park, as well as with the help of the Monmouth County Arts Council, the OceanFirst Foundation, and the generous support of many private donors. Anyone interested in contributing to this worthwhile cause can visit www.jazzartsproject.org or email info@jazzartsproject.org for more information.

To register a student for this program, call Tanya Peterson at (732) 859-1833 or visit the Boys and Girls Club at 1201 Monroe Avenue in Asbury Park to pick up a registration form.

Jazz Arts Project Inc. has been operating educational programs since 2006 as well as presenting 25 to 30 world-class events in Monmouth County each year. Its stated mission, “... to preserve, promote, and perpetuate the American musical art form known as jazz...” is well served by this program, which gives students a springboard towards a lifetime of music appreciation and participation.