Upcoming Last Day of School Charity Rock Concert

By Jennifer Ersalesi

There are many talented young musicians and singers in our Borough. These young performers have been involved in arts programs throughout the community and often seek opportunities to share their talents. They frequently perform in a variety of venues such as the Elks Club, outside at Dining Out, in Lincoln Park, in the Williams Plaza, and at the Williams Center. This is Rutherford spoke with the organizer of this event, Alex Britez, whose son is one of the amazing drummers who will share his talents at this event.

TIR: Where did the idea for the Last Day of School Charity Rock Concert come from?

Alex Britez: Back in December, I worked with Dan Olivo to promote an all-student holiday concert. We ended up collecting three boxes of toys and raising a couple thousand dollars for Toys for Tots. That experience really stuck with me. It showed how powerful student talent and the arts can be—not just to entertain, but to make a real impact. I wanted to create another opportunity like that, where kids could use their creativity to give back to the community.

TIR: Tell us about the bands that are participating in this Last Day of School Charity Rock Concert at the Williams Center on 6/24 at 4:30 pm.

AB: We’ve got an amazing lineup of student bands from across Rutherford schools. I wanted this to be a platform for our talented kids to invite their families and friends and really shine. The musical talent in town is incredible, and that’s thanks in large part to our school music programs and the Rutherford Rock program, which is run by a dedicated team of volunteers through the Rutherford Recreation Department.

Several of the bands performing were actually formed by kids who met through the Rutherford Rock program and decided to collaborate with friends they made there. I wouldn’t be surprised if there are even more bands forming right now in someone’s basement.

This year’s performers include Fretless, Mousetrap, and Ghost Notes from our elementary schools, and Little Dreamers, Untwisted, Lil Trapper, and Foul Play from the older grades. They’ll be playing everything from classic rock and pop to trap and melodic hardcore punk—there’s truly something for everyone.

TIR: You were able to find sponsors for this concert event. What can you tell us about these local sponsors?

AB: This event wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our community. Each sponsor has a personal connection to the arts—either through their own experiences or through their kids, who’ve benefited from Rutherford’s amazing programs.

This year’s sponsors include Jeff Jordan Architects, Allstate Dan Meredith Agency, The Hair Factory, and Van Duyne CPA & Advisors. Thanks to their support, every dollar collected at the door goes straight to the Rutherford Education Foundation. That’s huge. It means we can focus on the music and the mission, knowing the proceeds are going right back into our schools.

TIR: All of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Rutherford Education Foundation. Why did you choose this organization?

AB: Whenever I plan an event, I try to think about how it can serve multiple purposes—giving kids a chance to perform, creating a fun experience for the community, and supporting a cause. Since this is a “last day of school” concert, it made perfect sense to support an organization that directly benefits our schools.

The Rutherford Education Foundation does incredible work providing materials and resources that impact students every day. And I want the kids performing to feel proud knowing that their music helped fund something their school needed. That’s a powerful lesson in how their talents can make a difference.

TIR: What can people expect when they attend this event?

AB: Four hours of non-stop music, all performed by students—for students and the community. I really hope a lot of peers come out, especially those who haven’t seen their friends perform before. I want to see kids singing along, dancing, and just having a great time. It’s a celebration of everything they’ve accomplished this year and a fun, positive way to kick off summer.

TIR: Anything else you’d like to add?

AB: Just a huge thank you to everyone who helps make events like this possible—our teachers, local organizations, town committees, businesses, and volunteers. It really does take a village, and Rutherford is full of people who are willing to step up and create opportunities for our kids. I’m proud to be part of that.