50/50 Charitable Programs

Blues in the Schools

Blues in the Schools is a charitable program operated by Ottawa Bluesfest from participating elementary schools in the Ottawa and surrounding regions. The aim of the program is to expose students from all backgrounds to music and to encourage them to use music as a positive outlet in dealing with the world around them. Visiting artists/educators and local musicians will deliver the program to more than 5,000 students in Ottawa-area schools and beyond

• Week one of the program involves rotating, assembly-like presentations by various artists at participating schools.
• Week two includes artists working with classroom-size groups on a performance to be presented on the final day of the program, for their peers, teachers and families.

Ultimately these students are offered an opportunity to perform at the RBC Bluesfest in Ottawa, during the festival’s Blues in the Schools day in July.

Be in the Band

First launched in 2009, the “Be in the Band” initiative connects young musicians who want to be in a band with other potential bandmates. Professional local musicians mentor the aspiring future stars through weekly rehearsals in a high-quality ensemble experience. The program finishes with a community concert – and potentially a performance at RBC Bluesfest in July!

Tickets to support or local organizations and charities can be purchased online from March 8th – July 17th – or onsite during the festival from July 7th- 17th.