LOWELL — Ready to rock out for a cause? The Nashua Community Music School’s highly anticipated annual fundraiser rock show, Play It Forward is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 16 at 2 p.m. at Taffeta Music Hall in Lowell.
This all-ages, family friendly, afternoon event raises funds for NCMS student scholarships and free music programming, all while celebrating live local music and community. It is expected to be an epic summer rock show and celebration all in one.
NCMS provides the only free teen rock band program in the state of New Hampshire, one of the programs funded by Play It Forward.
NCMS’ teen rock band, Fates Collide, will open the show, showcasing the talent of young musicians developing their talents at NCMS.
There’s something so special to me about learning an instrument and then being able to play it with other people,” said teen rock band member and NCMS student Gabriel Bartoli. “… it’s a special connection you can’t get through anything else. The community is amazing. I’ve made some very close friends just by doing music every day. Having all the support I have here (at NCMS) definitely helped me grow into the person I am now.”
The soulful ska reggae band Westbound Train will hit the stage as this year’s Play It Forward headliner.
We’re super stoked to be a part of this,” says Obi Fernandez of Westbound Train. “(NCMS) offers great resources for next gen to get involved in music, learn about music and the arts … it’s a great cause, it’s going to be an awesome day!”
The band’s infectious vocal hooks and high-energy live shows have found them performing all over the world, including many reggae festivals.
“After almost a decade, Play It Forward has become a summer tradition for so many in our community and we can’t wait to bring the good vibes to Lowell. Westbound Train is the perfect headliner, because their high energy, dancey music shows that you can do way more with your trumpet, trombone, or sax than just play in a concert band or orchestra,” said NCMS Executive Director Lindsay Rinaldi. “Where else can you find live music the entire family will enjoy and be home in time for dinner?”
“There aren’t many rock shows out there that put both professional musicians on stage with the rising stars of tomorrow. This is your chance to share the live music experience with your kids in a fun and safe space. Best of all, you’ll walk away knowing your ticket will help us bring free music programming to 300 people every week,” Rinaldi said.
Tickets for Play It Forward 2026 start at $20 (+ fees) if purchased online. To avoid fees, you can purchase your tickets in advance at Taffeta’s box office, at A Damn Shame Records in the Hive, 101 Paige Street in Lowell, or at the door for $30. Children 5 & under receive free admission.
The Nashua Community Music School is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that has been serving the greater Nashua, N.H., area for 42 years. NCMS representatives say they go beyond simply music lessons: “We envision a world where music builds community, ignites social change, and inspires artistic expression. Our programs have the power to transform lives, open doors, and connect people from all walks of life. We are driven by our core values of delivering professional level music instruction, cultivating an inclusive and creative environment, collaborating with our community through music, creating customized musical experiences, and providing opportunities for deserving students.”
Visit www.nashuacms.org to learn more.
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