Daybreak Arts’ new multi-week music program, Sunlight Sessions, will provide a flexible, low-barrier opportunity for Daybreak Artists to reconnect with music in a welcoming and supportive environment. The program will be structured around weekly “drop-in” Jam Sessions & Open Mics, allowing artists to participate at whatever level feels comfortable—from actively performing to simply listening, enjoying music, and connecting with others.

Participants are invited to bring and perform their own original music or play covers, either independently or as part of a group. Daybreak Arts will provide all necessary musical instruments and equipment, eliminating the financial and logistical barriers that can make participating in music difficult. Volunteer musicians will also be present to provide accompaniment and support as needed, such as playing guitar for a vocalist, cajón for a song, or joining a group performance. This allows artists to participate even if they do not have an instrument, a band, or someone to accompany them.

The program is intentionally designed to welcome people with a wide range of musical backgrounds, abilities, and experience levels. There is no audition, required skill level, or expectation that participants perform every week. Artists can drop in, try something new, build confidence over time, or simply enjoy being part of a musical community.

This flexible approach directly responds to what we heard from Daybreak Artists when we surveyed them about interest in music programming. The majority shared that they had participated in music in the past—whether by playing an instrument, singing, performing, or creating their own music—but wanted an easy, safe, and non-intimidating way to return to music. The eight-week program creates that entry point: a space where artists can reconnect with a creative practice they already enjoy, explore something new, and experience the social and personal benefits of making music without pressure to perform or have prior formal training.

The program will include seven regular Jam Sessions & Open Mics, followed by an eighth and final session that will culminate in a holiday concert. The concert will provide artists with an opportunity to share what they have developed throughout the program in a celebratory, supportive setting and invite the broader community to experience their music.