This concert presented in lecture-demo style, demonstrating the role of the singer / songwriter throughout history. Billy’s original songs and improvisation will help students gain an understanding of the role of the “musical historian / storyteller / news bearer”ť throughout history, and to realize their own potential to fill that role.

Both in-person and virtual (live and pre-recorded) options are available for this program.

Artist Background

Born in Chicago, Billy Jonas honed his craft at Oberlin College, where he obtained a degree in music. Billy is a composer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Asheville, NC. He performs his original songs, stories and improvisations with voice, guitar and ‘industrial re-percussion’ – instruments made from found, foraged and recycled objects. Billy is known internationally for highly engaging and energetic performances. With a focus on his creative percussion and song writing, Billy’s concerts have entertained folks of all ages. Billy’s CDs and DVDs have garnered honors and critical acclaim, including a New York Times “Best” listing, a First Place Gold from the American Federation of Independent Musicians and multiple Parents’ Choice Gold Awards. Billy and his band were invited to play at the White House! Billy Jonas believes that creating a bright future starts with kids. His goal is to plant musical seeds that will help grow creative, open-minded, engaged and open-hearted citizens. Using homemade and re-cyclable “re-percussion” instruments, songs that celebrate community, as well as personal and planetary ecology, his think-outside-the-box educational performances occur at schools, colleges, universities and libraries around the country.

Search Criteria

• Program Type: Performance
• Discipline: Music, Storytelling
• Grade Level: Middle
• Cultural Context:
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County
• Virtual option available