HAMPTON, Va. (Nov. 10, 2017) – As Station manager and on-air personality for Hampton University’s 88.1 WHOV, Jay Lang is a man of many hats but his passion for helping young people in need might be the most fulfilling one to wear.
Tuesday, The HJ Lang Foundation, which Lang founded in 2016, surprised middle school aged musician Zymari Jackson with his very own flute.
“It was so emotional to watch this young man receive his own instrument,” Lang said. “As an artist, myself, it is important that we preserve good music and nurture young gifted musicians.”
The HJ Lang Foundation selects students who are identified by their teachers as highly talented but can’t afford their own instrument and, use one of the school’s instruments.
Jackson was presented the flute during intermission at the Church Street Jazz Series, that Lang helps produce annually. The HJ Lang Foundation provided Jackson, his family and teacher complimentary tickets to attend the concert. Jackson was anticipating a performance by famed jazz musician Richard Elliot when he was called on stage.
“Our non-profit foundation is based on the belief that the needs of others, and completing higher levels of education to achieve a dream, are of the utmost importance. Our founder, officers, board of directors and entire staff is committed to meeting those needs,” Lang said.
The donation is the fourth instrument The HJ Lang Foundation has given to a student in need this year, all of them in the Norfolk school system.
The HJ Lang Foundation has more surprises in store: the next award will be presented at the Marian Meadows concert Jan. 6 at the Attucks Theatre.
To learn more about The HJ Lang Foundation click here.
