2022 ARBA Youth in Blues Program

The 2022 ARBA Youth in Blues program concluded on Sunday 31st of October with a very entertaining closing concert at Star Theatres (see photos above).
This Year's 22 participants ranged in age from 11 to 25 and they performed in 5 different ensembles. Our young blues musicians and singers showed what they had learned during this year's program by playing songs that featured a range of different blues styles.
Those in attendance were left in no doubt of the wonderful talent our young people possess and we all look forward to seeing more of them onstage in future!
All of the program participants have been given complementary membership of The Adelaide Roots and Blues Association.
Congratulations to all the participants for their efforts and to program mentors Erica Graf, Evan Whetter, Mario Marino, Steve Wilson and Sebastian Brook for a job well done!
A big thanks to all at Star Theatres, to the ARBA volunteers and to everyone who attended the various fundraisers that allow us to undertake this annual program (we receive no government funding). 
Finally a massive shout out to the 370 members of the Adelaide Roots and Blues Association. Without you, none of our programs and initiatives would be possible.

ARBA Youth in Blues Mission Statement

The mission of the ARBA Youth in Blues program is to educate, nurture and foster the next generation of South Australian blues musicians. Participants will be educated and mentored by experienced professional musicians.
 
They will learn about the history of the blues, blues musical forms, song writing, stagecraft and marketing. They will get the opportunity to connect, rehearse and perform with other young musicians. There will also be public performance opportunities. 

The program will also aim to introduce the participants and their families to the wider blues community and foster connections that will continue well past the formal program duration.

 The ARBA Youth in Blues Program is an important contributor to the ongoing sustainability and longevity of the blues scene in South Australia.

Programs are run annually with the next program due in the later part of 2023.