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Music transcends language, culture, economic status and age. It can inspire, relieve, compel and move. It can evoke laughter and tears. In our complex world, music is often the thread that binds humanity together in bereavement as well as celebration of love, life and laughter. In many cultures in Africa the traditional griots or history keepers passed down family information, stories and traditions from generation to generation. In American society, the music of our culture has often reflected the signs of the times, everything from racial conflicts and anti war sentiments, to the celebration of freedom. Music can reflect a highly personal experience or a universal one. Since the events of September 11th, now more than ever before we are noticing the differences between us culturally. Ethnic profiling has become an unfortunate topic confronting many of us. The need to unify as a people is greater than ever. Almost everyone enjoys some form of music. In my life the experience of writing and performing my own music has brought with it enormous joy. The common ground of music has presented opportunities to learn about people and make friends from different areas of the world that otherwise had very little in common. Music can be a catalyst for change and tolerance. These programs aim to motivate curiosity and interest in the threads of diversity that make up the fabric of American Culture and ultimately humankind. Jennifer Chase MENU OF PROGRAMS For Children, Young Adults and Adults These programs have been sponsored by these fine companies: Prudential, CSX Transportation, Hospice of Northeast Florida, Rotary Clubs and Theatreworks Inc. “The American Cultural Family Tree” A Celebration of Diversity FCAT connections: Multi Cultural, music American History, World History and Language Arts. From the Native Americans to the Atlantic Slave trade and mass immigration through Ellis Island, how did we get here? A musical time line that features American Blues and Jazz, Motown and Folk music from the 1960’s and its relevance to today’s pop and hip hop culture. *This is also an excellent choice for ESOL students of all ages. “Songs and Stories from Jennifer Chase” FCAT curriculum connections: Language Arts, Social Studies, World Geography, Music. This performance features stories about other cultures, history, birth, death and race through original songs by Ms. Chase. The over- all message of the performance focuses on building self-esteem and personal growth through finding what you do well and sharing that talent with others. Through The Arts we can enjoy, entertain and communicate. “Francophone Cultural Exploration” (French or English) Curriculum connections: World Geography, Social Studies, Language Arts, Foreign Language. This dynamic performance explores the arts, religion, literature and music of the francophone world. Ms. Chase’s original and selected pieces, interwoven with stories of personal experiences with the people of Senegal, Madagascar, France and Louisiana give a unique look at the diversity of the francophone world. j.a.n.e Jacksonville Artists’ Night of Entertainment This continuing program is designed to reach at risk youth in either Team Up, young parenting centers or other community based after school programs. A series of performances by some of the area’s most talented songwriters, jazz singers, poets and artists, followed by the artist’s workshop with the students. It is designed to help students explore and develop their artistic talents, team work and organizational skills to create an event or “Night of Entertainment” featuring their own works of art and performances put together during these workshops. The arts are the vehicle that may help them build strong self esteem and have a channel for expression. “Follow Your Bliss…The Art of Education with j.a.n.e” (This is a workshop for educators and counselors to accompany the j.a.n.e program with youth.) The goal of this workshop is to demonstrate strategies implementing the arts in education. The performance inspires educators to incorporate their unique talents in interacting with at risk youth. The workshop will also give an overview to the j.a.n.e program as it is conducted with the students. The materials and activities presented will help the teachers and counselors reinforce the goals of the program. Suggestions of how to assist the students in creating and producing their own j.a.n.e and how they may supervise and encourage the students. “Stories an Songs for Women Only” This performance weaves stories and musical tales celebrating women into an introspective and many times humorous look at womanhood. Our sexuality, heroes, “sheroes” and the many challenges we face in love, loss, relationships, family, motherhood and society’s expectations of us are the themes. This is excellent addition to women’s history month events or luncheons for women’s groups.Multi-cultural, Anthropology and Women’s History and Language Arts curriculum connections. Jennifer Chase is an international performer of original music and unique selections of popular blues, rock, jazz and folk. Her two CD releases “kid jail” and “famadihana” as well as her work written and recorded in West Africa, reveal thoughtful and introspective reactions to life. Her performances are a moving and often humorous blend of stories and songs from her travels abroad and at home. Her inspirations are drawn from life experiences of relationships, family, motherhood, love, loss and growing up. Believing that music can be a catalyst for social change and personal growth, Ms. Chase has been active in her community, as founder and organizer of j.a.n.e ( Jacksonville Artists’ Night of Entertainment) , she created a sorority of local women artists collaborating and performing together in a gala night of entertainment that raised funds creating scholarships for single moms. She remains active in humanitarian projects that use music as a vehicle in communication, education, expression and fundraising in Senegal and France as well as at home. |
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