JAZZ at the Library

Connie Morella Library

Experience the harmonic world of jazz through this unique live performance by the professional Jazz Trio from Bach to Rock Music School.

Bach to Rock Bethesda’s jazz trio is composed of professional musicians and staff of Bach to Rock Bethesda, a local music school that provides music lessons and performances in the DC region.

Performers:

Joezell Charles - Sax

Joezell C. is the School Director for Bach To Rock Bethesda. He is from Woodbridge, VA and grew up in a family of musicians and educators. He started learning about music production at age 10 and began playing instruments at 12. Even though his main instrument is the Alto Saxophone, Joezell is a multi-instrumentalist who can coach all wind, brass, and percussion instruments. All through school he was a part of symphonic band, marching band, jazz band and show choir. Later, he received his Bachelor's in Music Education from Virginia State University. At his alma mater, Joezell pledged Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity incorporated. After spending 5 years as a band director, he went back to school to get his Masters in Higher Educational Leadership from Liberty University. In his free time, Joezell likes to produce music for up-and-coming artists and play the saxophone for private events. He is excited to lead Bach to Rock Bethesda and work to bring our community together with music.

Sam Monroe - Drums

Sam Monroe teaches drums, piano and band at Bach 2 Rock. A native of the Monterey Peninsula, he began performing at the age of eleven, while studying with legendary jazz drummer Vince Latiano. His music education was furthered at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA, Professional Percussion Studies Institute, San Francisco, CA and Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, CA. He has toured and performed with the Elixir Ensemble, Jamie Brewick Quintet, Aaron Gardner Quartet, Sam Monroe & Steve Nelson Rainey Future Jazz Duo, to name a few. Sam has also spent the last ten years teaching Percussion and Band for The Milwaukee Public Schools, The Wisconsin Conservatory of Music and The University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. He has been awarded Music Teacher of the Year and Percussion Teacher of the Year. He currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Neil Bolima - Piano

Neil Bolima is a young and talented multi-instrumentalist from the Silver Spring area. He has been playing piano since he was in 3rd grade and has attended many bands and orchestras his entire life. He was trained as a classical pianist but has since ventured into various other genres by playing in Jazz, Gospel, R&B, Country, and Rock bands. He has also since expanded his instrumental repertoire to include guitar, drums, voice, and percussion. He has been an active community in his church and his local community and often volunteers to teach kids piano and music. Additionally, Neil is a huge believer in music theory and its ability to augment every musician's ability to play, create, and understand music at a different level, so his lessons will gradually incorporate those concepts as students grow as musicians. His experience with the younger generation allows him to connect with his students and discover solutions to any problems they may have. His biggest priority is his students' success, so he will provide all the tools and exercises necessary to ensure that his student accomplishes their dreams. If nothing else, he ensures that his students feel supported, encouraged, and safe to continue pursuing this beautiful passion for as long as their heart desires.

For more detailed information about Bach to Rock and its staff, visit www.bachtorock.com/bethesda/ or call 301-913-5757. 

Questions about this program? Contact the Connie Morella Library at 240-777-0970

Looking for more fun things to do at MCPL? Take a look at MCPL Calendar of Events

Want to learn more about jazz? Take a look at these resources.  

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Accommodation Requests

People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing should request English-language captioning or sign-language interpretation at least five days before the library-sponsored program they plan to attend. Contact the Assistant Facilities and Accessibility Program Manager at 240-777-0002 with all other accommodation requests.

cm 1.1 01/03/2023

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