on StageOne
December 17, TeachRock, the free curriculum founded by Stevie Van Zandt that uses music history to make learning relevant across core subjects, brings together powerhouse musicians, joyful community energy, and a night of unforgettable music-making for HELP ON THE WAY HOLIDAY TOUR, the organization’s annual holiday benefit supporting teachers and students in CT, NJ, NY and nationwide.
Come jam with an all-star ensemble from the jamband scene promising to perform adventurous mashups of the Grateful Dead with songs revealing a secret theme.
Music By:
Al Schnier - Guitar / Vocals (moe.)
Tim Palmieri - Guitar / Vocals (Lotus)
Dani Battat - Keyboards / Vocals (Eggy)
Sarah Elaz - Bass / Vocals (Bearly Dead)
Vinnie Amico - Drums (moe.)
Bill Carbone - Drums (Max Creek)
For fans looking to start the night early, both events also offer a Grateful Dead–themed VIP Happy Hour, featuring exclusive meet & greets with the musicians and Stevie Van Zandt, an acoustic Dead set with very special guest Rob Fried, and an hour of open bar, passed food, and good friends. VIP doors open at 6:00 PM, with general admission doors at 7:00 PM each night.
Proceeds from the events support TeachRock, the education organization founded by Stevie Van Zandt that helps teachers bring core curriculum to life through music and culture. For thousands of teachers in CT and tens of thousands across the country, TeachRock’s free, standards-aligned curriculum has become a lifeline for reconnecting students to learning. The program has already reached more than 1 million students, with schools reporting higher attendance, fewer disciplinary issues, stronger academic outcomes, and even happier teachers, according to a recent Drexel University study.
More than 1,200 Connecticut teachers are registered and using TeachRock curriculum. Your support will provide free professional learning opportunities to help them bring the joy and success of TeachRock to their schools in 2026 and beyond. TeachRock has impacted the lives of more than 1 million students. Schools that use TeachRock report increased attendance, decreased disciplinary issues, and higher student achievement. A recent Drexel study showed that TeachRock teachers are happier than other teachers.