On Friday, September 5th, 2008, JC Fridays, Jersey City’s acclaimed citywide celebration of arts and culture, will take place once again! All events are free and open to the public and range from art exhibitions, live music, comedy to educational demonstrations and even a fashion show. Those looking to plan their JC Friday itinerary can pick up a JC Fridays Guide at a participating venue or visit www.jcfridays.com for a complete list of events, a map of all event locations, and more details on which events are barrier-free and family-friendly.
JC Fridays was created in 2005 by a coalition of artists, arts organizations and local businesses that wanted to showcase Jersey City’s exciting and burgeoning cultural landscape. Today it is an eagerly anticipated quarterly event, taking place at the start of every season, where both residents and visitors can celebrate the growing vibrancy and distinct charm that Jersey City has to offer.

Continue reading JC Fridays is here again! FRIDAY, September 5th →

Jersey City, NJ – Jersey City native, Daoud-David Williams and his Spirit of Life Ensemble sailed into St. Joseph’s School for the Blind on July 31^st to celebrate a beach party theme day for the students. 

The band’s rousing energy and distinctive jazz sounds brought out the sun and the smiles as students and staff danced and swayed to the lively music.

Mr. Williams and his band members have made several appearances at the school and generously donate their time and artistry so students have the opportunity to experience a live music performance.  The eclectic Ensemble blends a multi-cultural mix of professional musicians who fuse jazz with Latin, Caribbean, African, blues, funk and gospel rhythms to create a smooth and exciting sound.  The collective experience of the band members includes performances and recordings with top jazz icons like the Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Lionel Hampton orchestras.   According to St. Joseph’s Music Director, James Skitka, “The Spirit of Life Ensemble gives our children the opportunity to hear instruments that they wouldn’t ordinarily hear, especially the brass section.  In today’s popular music, many of these instruments are not used and children are unfamiliar with their sound.  Since our students are blind and visually impaired, there is also a tangible difference when they hear instruments live as opposed to a recording.”

  Continue reading Spirit of Life Ensemble Celebrates “Beach Day” at St. Joseph’s School for the Blind →