In these turbulent times, it’s more important than ever to keep our youth on a path to responsible adulthood. Music can prove to young people that hard work can be fun, and that not every reward needs to be monetary.

This year’s Guitar Mash Jam at City Winery on December 11 benefits teen outreach programs and features outstanding performers from such diverse genres as blues (Bill Simms, Jr.), newgrass (Sam Bush), diverse rock styles (Jo Lowry of Sting and 20 Feet from Stardom and Jon Herington of Steely Dan), pop/folk (Dar Williams) and World Music (Emel, “the Voice of the Arab Spring”).

Guitar Mash has emerged as a platform for participatory events large and small, from flash mobs to this annual jam at New York’s City Winery; Guitar Mash supports outreach to teen musicians in communities across New York’s five boroughs.

Hosted by WNYC’s John Schaefer, this City Winery benefit will blur the boundary between stage and audience: Guitar Mash invites the audience to play along with the musicians as they share their favorite songs and life stories. This year’s line-up features some of the music world’s most sought-after guitarists and singer/songwriters, performers who will lead the audience of 350+ guitarists and music lovers in songs that celebrate the power of communal music-making. All ticket holders are strongly encouraged to arrive with their acoustic guitars or just come prepared to sing along. Lyrics and charts to all songs will be shared by December 1st on the Guitar Mash website and will be projected on screens flanking the stage at City Winery, so even novice musicians will be able to follow.

Sunday, December 11 at City Winery, NYC at Noon

Tickets Start at $50 for Students, $90 for Adults

Visit bit.ly/GuitarMash5th to purchase now!

Guitar Mash provides entertaining and productive opportunities for a lifetime of reward for today’s youth. This year marks an especially good opportunity to do good while  having fun in the process. And if you don’t have a guitar, you’ll probably find one at the benefit auction,