Billy Jonas facts for kids
Billy Jonas is a talented musician from Asheville, North Carolina. He writes songs, plays many instruments, and is known for his unique style. Billy performs for all kinds of audiences, including families and faith groups. He is also part of the Sacred Music Team at Congregation Beth HaTephila.
Billy was a founding member of a folk music duo called "The Billys." He also leads "The Billy Jonas Band." What makes his music special is that he often uses everyday items that can be recycled as instruments! His shows are all about "Bridging Divides." This means he uses music to help people connect and heal differences within themselves, their families, and their communities. Billy Jonas has released 12 albums and even had a special on PBS. He has been performing live concerts for over 30 years, gaining many fans across North America.
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Billy's Music Journey
Early Days and "The Billys"
Back in the 1980s, when Billy Jonas was studying at Oberlin College, he helped start a performance art group called the Oberlin College Big Bang Theory. Later, in Chicago, he had monthly shows called "Bangalong with Billy." In the 1990s, he teamed up with Bill Melanson to form "The Billys," a "funky folk" duo.
As part of "The Billys," he performed at many festivals and venues across the country. Billy Jonas even shared the stage with famous musicians like Patty Larkin, Ani DiFranco, David Wilcox, Richard Thompson, and Pete Seeger.
Abraham Jam: Music for Unity
Billy Jonas is also a member of a special interfaith band called "Abraham Jam." This trio includes three well-known musicians from different backgrounds. They create music together that celebrates their diversity. The band first formed in 2010. They released an album called "Abraham Jam Live" in 2018. In 2019, they released a studio album called "White Moon." One song from "White Moon," called "Braided Prayer," was even used in a Broadway play called Our Town in 2024.
Awards and Recognition
Billy Jonas's music has won several awards. His CD What Kind of Cat are You? received a First Place/Gold award from the American Federation of Independent Musicians. It also won a Parents' Choice Gold Award. His music videos have also earned many honors, including Parents' Choice Awards. The New York Times even listed one of his videos as "Best for Kids." In 2010, Billy Jonas and his band were invited to perform at the White House Easter Egg Roll, which was a very special honor!
Creative Workshops
Billy Jonas loves to share his passion for music by leading workshops. These workshops teach people how to create music in different ways. Some topics include making instruments from everyday items, writing songs, and learning how to perform on stage. He also teaches workshops for teachers and leads "Neo-tribal hootenanny 101."
Camp Bangin' & Sangin'!
Every summer, Billy Jonas hosts a music and creativity camp in Asheville called "Camp Bangin' & Sangin'!" This camp is for both kids and adults. The goal of the camp is to help everyone discover and grow their creativity, no matter their musical experience. Campers get to sing, write their own songs, learn body percussion, make homemade instruments, and practice feeling comfortable performing.
Billy Jonas's Albums
For Families
- Toot the Horn (2017)
- Build It Back Again (2014)
- Happy Accidents (2009)
- What Kind of Cat Are You?! (2002)
For General Audiences
- habayta (homeward) (2015)
- Get Real (2004)
- Billy Jonas Live (2002)
- Life So Far (2000)
- The Time Has Come (as The Billys) (1993)
- The Billys (as The Billys) (1991)
With Abraham Jam
- White Moon (2019)
- Abraham Jam Live (2018)
Videos
- Everybody's in the Band DVD/VHS (2004)
- Bangin' and Sangin' DVD/VHS (2000)
See also
In Spanish: Billy Jonas para niños
