I am extremely proud to announce a new partnership between the Jake Foerster Music Arts Fund (JFMAF) and Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS) beginning this spring. The collaboration with JAS brings a strength in resources, associations and prestige that will help accelerate JFMAF initiatives for success in a myriad of co-produced scholarships and educational programs. We intend to be the “little engine that could” bringing new programs and audiences to the JAS mission stage. In meetings with Jim Horowitz (JAS President) and Andrea Beard (JAS Sr. VP) we found a commonality between our missions and connections that made perfect sense. JAS has been the gold standard for music entertainment and education in the valley for decades and we are extremely proud of the legacy associated with this partnership. We look forward to a full and rewarding bond between both organizations into the future.

Scholarship season is in full swing and JFMAF, along with JAS will be partnering in awarding scholarships together this year. Along with Aspen and Basalt High Schools, we are now ahead of schedule on our growth and have included Carbondale (Roaring Fork High School) and Glenwood Spring High School this year. Last year we proposed down valley growth in 2019, but I am happy to report we were able to include applications from graduating seniors from both RFHS and GSHS for review this year. 

Along with scholarships, both organizations will be launching their partnership with the Sonic Showdown event, taking place Saturday, May 19 from 2-5pm at The Temporary in Basalt. A reincarnation of the popular JAS Band Battle, the Sonic Showdown will showcase talented Valley students in a variety of musical forms: bands, DJs, solo artists, rappers, etc. Free and open to the public, a silent auction will be held at the event to raise funds for the scholarship program. To bid on auction items early, including a 7-night stay at a private home in Sayulita, Mexico, a D’Angelico Guitar, Colorado Rockies tickets, JAS tickets and more visit - WEBSITE TO COME.

My sincere thanks to JAS principals Jim Horowitz and Andrea Beard for their belief in us to create a partnership that will help expand JFMAF/JAS opportunities exponentially. And to all of you who have supported the JFMAF effort in these last 4 years; you are the backbone of everything we do and have accomplished to date. Your financial and creative support continues to do great things. From the board and myself, I want to thank everyone for your unwavering support and contribution to Jake’s legacy and the JFMAF mission.

Warmest aloha,

EJ Foerster

Executive Director JFMAF