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OPPORTUNITY RAWKSRAWKSTARS, INC.Free instruments, lessons and music education programs for kids.
Featured Projects and Events
On-Site Music Program
West End House
The West End House is one of the oldest and most prestigious Boys & Girls Club locations in the country, having served the Boston community for over 100 years. They were looking to create an after school music program at the request of several kids who attended classes there. Rawkstars provided the instruments, accessories and a music instructor who visited twice per week and gave group guitar lessons to 2 different age ranges. Eventually, Rawkstars collaborated with The Music & Youth Initiative to broker a partnership that resulted in a permanent Music Clubhouse, to serve the kids of the West End House.
WEH WebsiteServices
- Instrument provision
- Curriculum development
- On-site instruction
- Community partnerships
Fundraising Event
Falmouth Road Race
2014 saw Rawkstars recruit its innagural team for the prestigious Falmouth Road Race, held each year in August. It quickly became our most profitable event and one sure to grow in the coming years. 21 runners of all skill levels raised over $23,000 for the cause, all while building camraderie and getting healthy. We were also the best dressed team in the race!
Contact us to reserve your spot on the 2015 team!
FRR WebsiteBenefits
- Fundraising
- Team Building
- Fitness
- All proceeds benefit Rawkstars, Inc.
Rawkstars Student
Dion J
Dion, age 17, came to our attention through our association with The Home For Little Wanderers. He had been orphaned and living in *the system* since his early years. He was always creative, excelling at art, poetry and showed an interest in music. Rawkstars brought Dion into the recording studio and connected him with a producer to work on an original song he wrote himself. We also provided Dion with his own guitar, recording software, microphones and other accessories to continue his musical journey.
The Home WebsiteSkills
- Songwriting
- Collaboration
- Self-confidence
- Performance
Music Therapy
Instrument Donation
William Carter High School serves developmentally and physically challenged teens in Boston. They work with non-verbal students by way of music therapy. Practitioners were seeking to improve the schools catalog of instruments and supplement the old, broken items with instruments the kids could use to express themselves. Rawkstars was provided a *wish list* of equipment including hand drums, percussion, keyboards and other tactile musical equipment they sought. Working with our partners, we were able to fulfill the entire list to help bolster their existing music therapy program.
WCHS WebsiteServices
- Instrument donation
- Music Therapy
- Community partnership
Music is incredibly especially extremely powerful and motivational.
Participation in music affects kids like nothing else. It teaches them skills they will use in every aspect of their lives. Self-confidence, teamwork, discipline, patience and problem solving are just a few examples of what music education provides. Rawkstars develops creative programs that reach beyond socioeconomic, ethnic and cultural lines to give kids access to this life changing medium.
Our Programs
Free Instruments
Tell us what instrument you want to play and Rawkstars will provide one.
Private Lessons
Wherever you live, Rawkstars will arrange for music lessons on the instrument of your choice, in your area, on your schedule.
Equipment
Rawkstars can provide instruments and accessories to bolster your existing music program.
Group Lessons
Youth organzations can benefit from an onsite music instructor.
Scholarships
Rawkstars can assist music students with supplementary educational materials.
Music Therapy
Music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals.
Recording and Production
Rawkstars students can benefit from access and guidance in songwriting and music creation in a studio setting.
Performance
Rawkstars promotes and produces events in which students can showcase their skills.
more info...
How can I get involved?
The lifeblood of Rawkstars is its supporters. Without you, we cannot continue helping local kids and families through music.
Your Donations
$100 pays for a brand new guitar. $250 buys a digital keyboard and $500 will support a student with 6 months of lessons.
Other ways to help
Founded by musicians, focused on kids
Rawkstars is run by an all volunteer Board who have experienced the power of music first hand.
Meet the Team
Jonathan Jacobs / JJ
Founder and President
JJ founded Rawkstars after working as a touring Sound Engineer for national artists and technologist for fortune 500 brands. He plays bass guitar and enjoys hockey, non-fiction and tattoos.
Lisa Jacobs
Vice President, Board Member
Lisa has been with Rawkstars since its inception and been instrumental to its growth. She is a lifelong musician and accomplished vocalist who also plays guitar and piano.
Cidalia America
Bookkeeper, Board Member
Cid handles the Rawkstars monthly bookkeeping duties and has been a Board Member since 2007. Her soulful vocals can be heard fronting a local blues band.
Donna Wabrek
Treasurer, Board Member
Donna has a bachelors degree in music performance and has overseen the Rawkstars financials since 2010. She plays the cello and is a Patriots season ticket holder.
Cristina Azzinaro
Legal Counsel, Board Member
Crissy brings a wealth of legal expertise to the Rawkstars team and served in this capacity since 2010. She has been playing guitars of all sorts since the age of 5 and is an avid Boston sports fan.