Help Blake get to the Monterey Jazz Festival

Hi, my name is Don, and I am fundraising for Blake Slaughter to help him get to Monterey, CA to play at the famous Monterey Jazz Festival. Blake is a Sophomore guitar player who attends the Studio Jazz program at the Fine Arts Center here in Greenville, SC . Blake has been selected to be a part of the Monterey Jazz Festival's "Next Generation Jazz Orchestra" - There is only one high school guitarist in the country selected for this ensemble. Blake will be one of the youngest guitarists to ever play the renowned Jazz Festival. What an amazing accomplishment for this talented young man!

In order to perform at the festival, Blake and his family will have to travel to California. The funds raised here will help off set the costs (air fare, hotel rooms, rental cars, food) of these trips. Blake and his family have been part of the Greenville music scene for many years and are some of the most gracious folks I have ever met. My son, Dylan, and Blake have played several times at Smiley's, and your donation means the world to me, both as a music lover and as a parent.

https://www.broadwayworld.com/costa-mesa/article/Monterey-Jazz-Festival-Announces-2021-Next-Generation-Jazz-Orchestra-Members-20210518

Blake's background:

When his parents asked their then 5 year old son which musical instrument he wanted to study, Blake did not hesitate. With conviction he responded, “Guitar!” A few weeks later, Blake began to study with legendary guitarist and teacher, Matt Dingledine. In addition to Matt, he also now studies with Maestros Shannon Hoover and Steve Watson. Due to his God-given talent, excellent teachers and hard work, Blake has become a highly acclaimed jazz guitarist.