By Lynette Stonefeld
Coordinator, Tempe Youth Showcase
A paragraph about a bunch of neighborhood kids playing bluegrass might make a good enough story, but the real story here is that of Anni and Vincent Beach. I had the privilege of meeting these two amazing folks a few weeks ago when we were auditioning kids for the Tempe Youth Showcase. I first caught site of them driving that gigantic motor home through downtown Tempe looking for a parking space. I don't know where they finally stuck it, but in came nine kids of the Jam Pak Blues 'N' Grass Neighborhood Band and all their instruments. One of the kids brought their Dad who told me that the Beach's welcome the neighborhood kids to their home to learn music and just have fun. In fact, their garage is sort of a makeshift "jam" room furnished with a sofa, some chairs, and lots of music. Anni is sure proud of "her" kids. She makes them sound good, but more important-she cares enough to make them good people.
Anni and Vincent Beach can be reached in Chandler, AZ by E-Mail, (480) 963-6811 or www.jampak.com.
The Arizona Bluegrass Association (ABA), recognizing the resources of America's youth, has created the "FutureGrass" program.
The ABA FutureGrass program is designed to encourage children to
play bluegrass and acoustic instruments. It accomplishes this by
cultivating an initial interest then, if necessary and if possible,
provides the means for children to learn to play instruments of their
choice. Further, the program will provide workshops and guidance to
help these children with their practice. Opportunities for the children
to "jam" with others in the program are provided at each ABAsponsored
activity throughout the year.
FutureGrass
not only helps teach kids how to play bluegrass music, but also helps
them feel better about themselves, and gives them something positive to
do in the present and in the future.
We believe that children are the future of the world. We also
believe that helping them to develop positive hobbies now will make
them more stable and productive adults.
