Locals, we meet again. This week, I am going to switch up the content of the Radar, and focus on a cool event that is happening on the local front.
I cannot stress enough the importance of networking, fundraising, and bands coming together in this community. There are so many people out there chasing a dream, and there is no reason not to help everyone out where we can; we are one unit, one community, with a ton of talent. That is why events like battles of the bands, local music night, open mic nights, flea markets, and other local vendors play such an epic role in supporting the local music scene. I think we are all well aware that we will get nowhere without the support of one another, hence my enjoyment of this column week to week.
That being said, I want to shine light upon an awe-inspiring event that is happening in the near future called TechFest: A Concert For Student Scholarships. Now, here’s the basic lowdown. This event will be taking place on Saturday, April 18, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Toms River, New Jersey, and doors open at 1 p.m. Tickets are $15 dollars; the proceeds go to future scholarships for OCTVS Tech students. The music will kick off at 2 p.m., and that’s just when an epic night will start!
TechFest is a fundraiser started as The OCVTS Audio Recording Program and The Performing Arts Academy put their heads together to form a musical festival that provides scholarships for students interested in pursuing a career in the technical field. Not only does this help boost the self-confidence and persistence of our youth, but it allows ambitious artists to be discovered. Now, take yourself out of the equation for one second and think of a time when you wished you could get your name or cause out there. It’s not every day you find compassionate people who are willing to help others pursue their goals. Keep in mind; some of these people are complete strangers. There are so many benefits to fundraising for students, and it will forever implant a chief valued lesson in the minds of the community; life lessons that can be carried throughout all age groups, improving skills, talent, and provision.
Now, aside from the fact that TechFest has a tremendous cause behind it, the live performances incorporated are the icing on the cake. Offering two performance stages, the lineup contains established local musicians along with some fresh, young artists that are right out the gate. I am pretty much blown away by the amount of astounding local bands that are on this roster. Trust me when I say, even if this wasn’t for a great cause, it would be a show worth spending a Saturday at. Talent includes 18th And Addison, Accidental Seabirds, Lower The Veil, Paris Under Fire, Chris Rockwell And The Stickball Social Club, Bone And Marrow, Gay Guy, Straight Guy, Prehistoric Forest, and so many more. It’s also pretty amazing how varied the lineup is; you really can check out a bunch of dissimilar genres for your liking. There will also be food, concessions, and artist merchandise for everyone to enjoy. This whole event is organized, operated, and monitored by the lovely students of the OCVTS PAA Tech Club, Mr. Bill Bourke, and Mr. Zack Slater. Shout out to everyone involved!
To learn more about this event and get involved, please visit techfestmusic.com. You can also check out their Facebook page dedicated to this cause at facebook.com/TechFestMusic. Again, this is all going down Saturday, April 18, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Toms River, New Jersey. Where else can you find dozens of incredible local bands, all on one bill, for a great cause, and only $15? NOWHERE! I am aiming to attend this, as I have been trying to see a lot of these acts for quite some time. This area has come a long way from setting up lemonade stands and baking cookies to raise money for our youth, so come out and be a part of TechFest 2015!
I will be back next week with a band, or maybe even another event for your liking! It’s all part of the plan; supporting local music, and the community behind it. If you follow this column, you know where I stand. See you next week!
