Drummer Jerome Jennings was the featured artist at Saturday’s WBGO Kids Concert Series.
“What I love about performing for kids is their honesty in terms of how they feel. They don’t withhold their feelings of whether they disagree, bored or tired,” said Jennings.
Jennings, originally from Cleveland, Ohio graduated in 2004 from Rutgers University's Mason Gross School for the Performing Arts. Later on, Jennings became the first jazz studies recipient of the Morse Fellowship at the Juilliard School. Jennings' first album, ‘The Beast’, was released last November.
“I wanted to put a project out that was relevant to the times and its message. I also wanted it to be an album for the music that I love and respect,” Jennings said.
The usually quiet library atmosphere turned into a lively interactive experience that the kids enjoyed.
“I want to dance with somebody,” exclaimed one excited kid.
Parents also had a good time, especially Danielle Tucker of Livingston.
“I love the interaction with the kids and musicians. They really help them understand each instrument,” said Tucker.Jerome Jennings has some advice for young performers.“Whether you want to play afro-Cuban music, Caribbean music, just stick with it.”
The WBGO Kids Jazz Concert Series is a way for kids to connect to jazz music in a friendly and simple way. The series is open to kids of all ages. The next concert is set for this coming Saturday, August 12th, where drummer Vince Ector will be the featured guest at The Clubhouse on Spruce Street in Newark.