On Tuesday, January 23, students at Oaklawn Elementary School were treated to a special musical performance from the Newport Jazz Assembly.

Since its inception, the Newport Jazz Assembly band has performed in 50 schools to over 13,000 students, primarily in Rhode Island, but also in Massachusetts or Connecticut.

The program is delivered to the schools free of charge.

“The program started in February, 2016 by Newport Festivals Foundation to offer public school children the experience of learning [and hearing] about the music performed at the Newport Jazz Festival,” said Deborah Ross, Director of Education for Newport Festivals Foundation.

The band is led by Providence native and URI graduate Ben Marcoux on clarinet and tenor sax, Jimmy O'Connell on trombone, Manuel Morales on trumpet, Tony Davis on guitar, Keith Davis on piano, Alex Tremblay on bass and Mike Camacho on drums.  

“Many of our fifth grade students in the instrumental program were amazed by the potential they hold as future musicians if they stay motivated and work hard,” said Oaklawn principal Jim Zanfini. “The Newport Jazz performers were wonderful role models for our aspiring musicians.”

There is further information on their website at NewportFestivalsFoundation.org, or directly contact them at deborah@newportfestivals.org or call 212-452-3036.