Music education benefit concert for Jared Music Foundation

While Rock & Rails may be coming to a close soon, the free music will continue for one more week with the annual Remember in September (RISE) Benefit Concert for the Jared Music Foundation. The concert will take place on Thursday, Sept. 5, at Whistle Stop Park from 5 to 9 p.m.

This concert is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Niwot Cultural Arts Association (NCAA) or the Niwot Business Association (NBA), but has sometimes been referred to as the "unofficial Rock & Rails victory lap" concert, with many of the same volunteers donating their time and efforts to the cause.

The free concert will open with Zivanai Masango from 5 - 6 p.m., with the headlining band, Funkiphino, taking the stage from 6 - 9 p.m. Proceeds from this concert come from donations and sponsorships and go towards the Jared Music Foundation's efforts to support the expansion of access to music education.

The Jared Music Foundation's mission statement says, "Our intention is to shape young minds through music education, exposing students in need to the dynamic and impactful feelings of creating and experiencing music...." Money raised for this non-profit organization goes towards several programs including music scholarships and providing students with new, refurbished and donated instruments.

How did this non-profit organization get started?

Jared Lizakowski was a Niwot resident who grew up attending Niwot Elementary School, and continuing at Sunset Middle School and Niwot High School. He was very passionate about music, drumming, and above all else, friendship and the well-being of others.

It is through his passion for supporting others and being musically involved, that after his untimely passing in 2016 at the age of 19, the Jared Music Foundation was started by his mother and step-father, Renae and Surinder Dahiya. The organization has sponsored many students' passions for learning about music, including providing lessons and supplying instruments to students in need.

At the time of his passing, Jared had been involved with a band called Twenty Year Push. Members of the band still come together and are involved with the non-profit, creating merchandise and helping with events and organization over the years.

Be sure to attend the RISE Benefit Concert on Sept. 5 to keep the good times rolling with free summer concerts in Niwot while supporting the Jared Music Foundation through generous donations.