1.19.23: Due to an unexpected scheduling conflict, Matthew Whitaker’s Performance for Young People has been canceled and will not be rescheduled. We sincerely apologize for the disappointment and inconvenience this causes. If you would like to exchange to another Performance for Young People, please call the Performing Arts Center Box Office or Education Coordinator Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at (706) 542-4400. The evening public performance will still take place as planned.

“I am a musician who happens to be blind,” American jazz pianist Matthew Whitaker says, “and my prayer is that I can continue to be a blessing and inspiration to others.” From his earliest days noodling on a keyboard before mastering the Hammond B3 organ, he has evolved into a full-fledged virtuoso playing Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, the Apollo Theater, and beyond. His phenomenal quintet joins him at UGA to share his influences: traditional and contemporary jazz, R&B, Latin music, and gospel.

Performances of Young People

This program is designed to expose K-12 students to the performing arts at a young age by facilitating in-person, culturally diverse experiences for them. The program’s purpose is to inspire the next generation of artists and arts supporters. The costs of these performances are generously subsidized by friends of the Performing Arts Center who share that vision. Parents, guardians, and teachers are encouraged to exercise their personal judgement when determining if programs are appropriate for their children and students. Admission to Performances for Young People is $2 for students and $4 for adults. Students must be at least six years old to attend. Large school groups should use the order form for reservations (forthcoming). Home school groups should contact the box office at (706) 542-4400 or in person Monday-Friday, 10:00 am-5:00 pm. View the ticket policies here.