[Freestocks, Unsplash]

Loyola and NOCCA Music Students to Perform at NOLA Funk Fest

07:00 October 11, 2024
By: Grace Carmody

Empowering Emerging Youth Artists

On Friday, October 18 through Sunday, October 20, the New Orleans Jazz Museum will host NOLA Funk Fest, a festival intent on showcasing local musicians and their musical talents. Students in Loyola University's School of Music and Theatre Professions, in conjunction with students from the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), will share the "Passing the Torch" stage.

There, they will present their impressive musical acts—from jazz to hip hop—with a special performance on Sunday, October 20 at 7 p.m., displaying a performance by both schools' best artists. Over a dozen musical acts will be performed by Loyola students, which includes names such as Ja Fearce, Azure Skyz, Dizzy, Kai De Luca, and many more. Similarly, there will be students from New Orleans' best art training high school, NOCCA.

For many students this might be the first time they're performing on stage, and is a fantastic way to gain experience. The shared stage, the "Passing of the Torch" stage, is an opportunity for students to engage in the city's local culture and musical scene and make their debut as young artists. Attending NOLA Funk Fest helps to facilitate and support these student's careers in the music industry.

NOLA Funk Fest

The event will also be headlined by popular performers including Big Freedia, Dumpstaphunk, the Souls Rebels, and Bobby Rush. The schedule of events will run from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m. each day and will feature delicious food, drink, fantastic live music, and more. Tickets range in prices: $20 for students, $40 for general admission for one day, and up to $900 for a three-day VIP experience. Click here to buy them.

On a mission to expand New Orleans' live music scene and foster the future of young artists throughout the city, NOLA Funk Fest is a fantastic way to get involved and support student's musical endeavors. Encouraging musical education ensures the longevity of New Orleans' vibrant music scene. Presented by the Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience, proceeds from the festival will help to support the future of the organization. In turn, the Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience will help to foster young artist's creativity and musical expression.

Homeless Relief

NOLA Funk Fest will also be teaming up with Positive Legacy to host a unique auction to benefit Grace at the Green Light. On a mission to provide the unhoused population of New Orleans with basic goods and services, Grace at the Green Light has been a staple to the local community for nearly 10 years. The nonprofit features different programs, including a Family Reunification Program, free breakfast seven days a week, Grace's Clothing Closet to provide clothing and hygienic supplies, and much more to those in need. Proceeds from this year's auction will go to benefiting their mission, and it is a fantastic way to give back to the community.

The auction, showcasing exclusive signed memorabilia, instruments, concert tickets, and other cool experiences, will be held online on October 10 through October 17, as well as in person at the NOLA Funk Fest on October 18 through October 20. Positive Legacy, a nonprofit that combines music and community service, will help to manage the auction. With the goal of using music and its power to give back to the people and the planet, Positive Legacy is thrilled to work in partnership with the NOLA Funk Fest to benefit Grace at the Green Light.

Sign Up!

FOR THE INSIDE SCOOP ON DINING, MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT, THE ARTS & MORE!