Founded in 1992, the Blues Society of Western New York’s mission is to preserve Blues music through educational endeavors and promotional events. The Society began with a drive that drew around 100 members. Subsequent drives increased membership to around 700. In 2009, the Society and more than 60 local blues musicians produced the Jammin’ for a Cure CD. Featuring original tracks from local blues bands, the project has raised over $11,000 to benefit breast cancer research. In 2001, the Society began its Blues in the Schools mission. Since then, it has sponsored over 30 individual programs in various schools reaching thousands of children. It has also brought in musicians like Joe Bonamassa, Marcia Ball, Eden Brent, Tas Cru, and others to lead BITS workshops for interested children and musicians. Amateur musicians of all ages flock to monthly AmJams to get on stage and play with seasoned blues artists. Current efforts include collaboration with Music is Art, a not-for-profit cultural organization founded by The Goo Goo Dolls bassist and Buffalo native, Robby Takac.
