The Nashua Community Music School’s most epic rock show of the year, Play It Forward, will be held on Aug. 16. Courtesy photo/CHRIS BONCODDO

NASHUA – The Nashua Community Music School’s highly anticipated annual fundraiser rock show, Play It Forward, is scheduled for Aug. 16 at 2 p.m.

The event will be held at the Taffeta Music Hall, 110 Western Ave. in Lowell, Mass.

This family friendly afternoon event raises funds for NCMS student scholarships and free music programming, all while celebrating live local music and community.

The NCMS provides the only free teen rock band program in New Hampshire, which is one of the programs funded by Play It Forward. The NCMS’ teen rock band, Fates Collide, will open the show, showcasing the talent of young musicians developing their talents at the NCMS.

“There’s something so special to me about learning an instrument and then being able to play it with other people,” said Gabriel Bartoli, a member of Fates Collide. “It’s a special connection you can’t get through anything else. The community is amazing. I’ve made some very close friends just by doing music every day. Having all the support I have here (at NCMS) definitely helped me grow into the person I am now.”

Soulful ska reggae Westbound Train will hit the stage as this year’s Play It Forward headliner.

“We’re super stoked to be a part of this,” says Obi Fernandez of Westbound Train. “(NCMS) offers great resources for next gen to get involved in music, learn about music and the arts, it’s a great cause, it’s going to be an awesome day.”

Influenced by pioneers ranging from The Skatalites to Otis Redding, Hepcat to The Slackers, the band’s infectious vocal hooks and high-energy live shows have found them performing all over the world–from the Vans Warped Tour to Summer of Ska to Rude Cat Festival to countless reggae festivals and national and international tours.

“After almost a decade, Play It Forward has become a summer tradition for so many in our community and we can’t wait to bring the good vibes to Lowell. Westbound Train is the perfect headliner, because their high energy, dancey music shows that you can do way more with your trumpet, trombone or sax than just play in a concert band or orchestra,” said NCMS Executive Director Lindsay Rinaldi. Where else can you find live music the entire family will enjoy and be home in time for dinner?”

Tickets for Play It Forward 2026 start at $20 if purchased online. To avoid fees, tickets can be purchased in advance at Taffeta’s box office, at A Damn Shame Records in the Hive or at the door for $30. Children 5 and under will be admitted for free.