HOUSE OF BLUES: Enriching young lives through the Arts

Why learn about the blues? Because blues music and the story of how it developed is part of a larger story about the people, the music and the history of this country.   More than 5000 students per school year from Boston and beyond visit the House of Blues Boston, and experience the International House of Blues Foundation's educational music and art programs. Students explore aspects of American history and culture through blues music and traditions of related folk art. The programs engage students and teachers (grades 5-12) with interactive arts related learning experiences; all programs are offered at no cost to students and teachers from the Boston Public Schools.   The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration invites students from the Boston Public Schools to perform works inspired by the life and teachings of Dr. King on the Music Hall stage. This year 145, students representing 8 Boston Public Schools performed, special guest Boston City Councillor Tito Jackson read excerpts from Dr. King's speech "I've Been To The Mountaintop". ABOUT THE HOUSE OF BLUES   The House of Blues grew out of founder Isaac Tigrett's love for the unique American art form known as the "the blues". Weaned on this music during his early childhood in Tennessee, one of Isaac's goals was to introduce the world to the music of the rural south, including the blues, rhythm and blues, gospel, jazz and roots-based rock & roll. House of Blues - Boston draws close to half a million people to the Fenway Cultural District every year for an unparalleled music experience, an evening in the exotic Foundation Room, a unique private function and the inspiring educational programs that enrich young lives through music and art.