The Capital Region Blues Network (CRBN) is an affiliate of the Blues Foundation whose mission is “To preserve blues heritage, celebrate blues recording and performance, expand worldwide awareness of the blues, and ensure the future of this uniquely American art form.”

Although focused on the metropolitan area surrounding Albany, New York, the Capital Region Blues Network serves an extensive geographic region that includes Western Massachusetts to the east, the Catskills to the west, the Adirondacks to the north and the lower reaches of the Upper Hudson Valley. Our most immediate neighboring blues societies are the Mohawk Valley Blues Society and the Hudson Valley Blues Society.

WE ACCOMPLISH OUR MISSION THROUGH:

Community Awareness:  We promote live performances of the vibrant local community of blues musicians and partner with music venues to promote the shows of regional and national blues acts.

Music Education and Enrichment:  Our Blues In The Schools program provides education in blues music culture, history and musical instruction for all grade levels, from Pre-K to 12th grade.

The Weekly Jam:  The jam provides opportunities for local musicians of differing levels of experience to grow musically by playing with other musicians and enhancing their art. The jam also provides great networking opportunities.

Growth Opportunities for Local Blues Acts:  Our affiliation with the Blues Foundation provides opportunities for local blues acts to participate in the annual International Blues Challenge (IBC) in Memphis, TN. The winners of our local challenge events get to share their music with a wider blues audience and interact with industry professionals at the event in Memphis.

YOUR SUPPORT IS WHAT KEEPS THE BLUES ALIVE:

We are an all-volunteer board that remains strong through friends, volunteers, and businesses throughout our region. Our ability to support these activities is dependent on the financial support of our members, sponsors and donors. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit, and all donations and membership dues are tax-deductible subject to IRS regulations.

If you'd like to become a member or sponsor, donate, or volunteer with us, please contact us!