Vanessa Collier to Bring the Blues to Syracuse STEAM School

Award-winning  saxophonist, vocalist, songwriter and educator Vanessa Collier and her band will visit the Syracuse City School District STEAM School on June 12 as part of the JJ Lane Construction Blues In The Schools Program.

The school visit is part of the educational outreach surrounding the 2026 New York State Blues Festival. Additional initiatives include the Blues Ignition student band and the Beginnings Credit Union KJ James Memorial Scholarship. These programs introduce students to the history, culture and artistry of blues music through direct interaction with professional artists.

Vanessa Collier is a multiple-time Blues Music Award winner and internationally acclaimed performer. She is known for her dynamic live performances, powerful vocals  and exceptional musicianship. In addition to her extensive touring career, she is passionate about music education and inspiring the next generation of musicians. Collier will perform at the New York State Blues Festival on June 13. 

The New York State Rhythm & Blues Festival, Inc. operates several youth initiatives like the JJ Lane Construction Blues In The Schools Program. The New York State Blues Festival is one of the largest free blues events in the Northeast. The 2026 New York State Blues Festival will take place June 11 to 13 at Chevy Court on the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse. The admission-free festival has grown into one of the largest free blues festivals in the world.

The festival’s year-round music education initiative connects students with professional musicians through workshops, masterclasses and live performances. The program introduces young people to the history, culture and artistry of blues music through direct interaction with professional artists.

The day’s programming will feature a workshop, clinic and masterclass for band and chorus students, a live performance for students in the school’s newly renovated Micron Auditorium, small group lessons and student engagement sessions, interactive workshops and classroom discussions.