Now, as summer rolls in, the calendar is filling up quickly with live performances, regional festivals, private events, concerts, and road dates at some of my favorite venues and destinations around Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wisconsin and beyond. Summer has always been one of my favorite seasons for live music. There’s just something special about outdoor concerts, community festivals, small-town celebrations, and long nights spent making music with great people.

Whether you’ve followed my work for years, studied music with me, hired one of my groups, or are just discovering this website for the first time, I truly appreciate you being here. I hope you’ll follow along with the summer schedule, come out to a performance, and stop by to say hello sometime along the way. Live music is always better when shared with friends, family, and community.

5/2 – Soca Jukebox, Weston Wine Festival, Weston MO 230-430

5/7 – Solo, InsprireU Mosaic Foundation TBA 4-6pm

5/8 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm

5/24 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

5/31 – Solo, Magoon’s Saloon, St Joseph MO 5pm Benefit

6/5 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm

6/6 – Solo, St Jo Frontier Casino, St. Joseph MO, 5-7pm

6/11 – Michael Shaun Brown, ‘Party on the Parkway” St. Joseph MO, 5pm

6/14 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

6/18 – Rain Date POTP TBA

6/20 – Soca Trio, John Knox Village PRIVATE, 11am

6/20 – Soca Jukebox, Cafe Acoustic, St. Joseph MO, 830pm

6/27 – Solo, InspireU, Kids Event TBA 10am-1pm

7/1 – Solo, Craig B-day Bash PRIVATE 630-9

7/3 – Soca Jukebox, Woodside Country Club, 5-8pm

7/9 – Soca Jukebox, Overland Park, TBA

7/4 – Soca Jukebox, 250th 4th of July, Atchison KS, TBA

7/11 – Solo, Ron’s Son’s Bday, TBA

7/14 – Soca Jukebox, Tomah WI TBA

7/16 – Soca Jukebox, “Downtown in Madtown”, Madison SD TBA

7/17 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm

7/18 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

7/18 – Solo – St. Jo Frontier Casino, St. Joseph MO 6-9pm

8/7 – Soca Jukebox, “Bands on the Bricks” Aurora NE TBA

8/8 – Soca Jukebox, “20th Anniversary Party @ Cunningham’s Journal”, Kearney NE

8/15 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

8/28 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm

8/29 – Soca Jukebox, Atchison Hospital Gala, Atchison KS, TBA

9/5 – Soca Jukebox “Forks & Corks” Macon MO 6-8, TBA

9/6 – Soca Jukebox, HI-HO, St. Joseph MO TBA

9/11 – “Ignite!” Event, Mosaic Life Care Foundation, PRIVATE.

9/12 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

9/17 – Soca Duo, Blish Mize Fall Market, Overland Park Convention Center, 4-8pm

9/18 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm

9/26 – Soca Jukebox, St Jo Frontier Casino, St. Joseph MO, 7-9

10/3 – Michael Shaun Brown, Fillmore Fall Festival, Fillmore MO, TBA

10/9 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm

10/10 – Soca Jukebox, Kansas City Generation Relevant TBA

10/10 – Under the Influence, Jett/Rylie Trimmer Wedding PRIVATE TBA

10/11 – Under the Influence, Jake/Isabella Schneider Wedding PRIVATE TBA

10/17 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

11/22 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

12/11 – Michael Shaun Brown, PRIVATE, St. Joseph MO TBA

*More Special Events & Performances TBA!!

2027

3/7-14 – Soca Duo, “Springbreak with Soca!” EMERALD ISLE – IRELAND!!

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The Missouri Theater has been part of St. Joseph’s cultural life for generations now. When I first got to town, it was already the premier venue for the performing arts — not a movie theater, but a home for live music. The St. Joseph Symphony had been there for years, along with touring artists and community groups. As a newly relocated college student, I could tell it was an important place. 

When I was a student at Missouri Western State College, students could get free tickets to performances. I remember looking through the schedule and requesting certain shows. One I still remember clearly was the Eddie Daniels Jazz Quartet. Eddie Daniels is a well-known jazz clarinetist, and he happens to share the same name as my lifelong best friend, Eddie Daniels. So naturally we went together. Sitting in the Missouri Theater listening to great jazz with my friend — who had the same name as the guy on stage — was a pretty fun coincidence.

As I got further connected, I eventually moved from the audience to the stage. I performed there with the MWSC Chorale, the St. Joseph Community Chorus, percussion ensembles, and combined college and community groups. We performed big works like Messiah and Carmina Burana. For a young musician, getting to perform music like that on that stage was a big experience.

Over the years the Missouri Theater kept showing up in my life. I’ve played there with the St. Joseph Symphony, Robidoux Resident Theatre, university groups, and plenty of special events. Some of my favorite times were in the pit orchestra for musicals. Theater people are fun to work with. Rehearsals can be hectic and there are always last-minute adjustments, but somehow everything comes together when the curtain goes up.

After enough years you end up seeing just about every part of the building. I’ve been on stage, in the pit, backstage, under the stage, in every dressing room, tiny bathroom, hallway, hauling equipment in and out. I feel like I know most of the nooks and crannies pretty well (don’t hit your head on the that low-hanging pipe!). We’ve even used the theater as a backdrop for professional and endorsement photos.  Our Caribbean steel, Island percussion, party band, Soca Jukebox filmed a full 30 minute protional video we still use.  It’s hard to beat that setting.

Some of the most meaningful musical experiences for me there were performing the guitar parts for “Red White and Bluegrass” with Ann and Terry Brock and Anthony Glise’s “Mass for Children”. I also had the chance to perform much of Anthony’s music with him over the years, including his Double Concerto and his progressive work with The Nova Project. Those projects brought international artists like Ken Sugita and Jan Akkerman to the Missouri Theater stage, which was just super cool.

One person I have to mention when talking about the Missouri Theater is Frank Polleck. For as long as I’ve been around that building, Frank has been there behind the scenes making everything work. I’m not even sure what his official title is — stage manager, technical director, probably a little of everything — but he knows that theater better than anyone.

The first time I met him I was just a college kid who didn’t know much about anything. Frank was kind to me right away and made me feel welcome in a place that could have felt pretty intimidating. And every time I worked there after that, he treated me the same way. Whether I was performing, setting up equipment, or just passing through, he always made you feel like you were an important part of what was happening.

Frank was probably the most knowledgeable person in the building and certainly one of the hardest working. He dedicated his career to that theater and had a hand in nearly every production that happened there during his tenure. Most people see the performers on stage, but behind the scenes Frank was the one making sure the scenery worked, the lights came on, and everything actually happened. Good times or tough times, he was there.

Over the years I’ve also learned a lot from the conductors and musicians I worked with there. Some were strict but incredibly positive and encouraging. Others were a little harder on people. Both types taught me something about what to do (what not to do!) and about how to work with creative people.

Margaret Kew, longtime concertmaster of the St. Joseph Symphony, was another person I learned a lot from. I worked with her at Benedictine College, in the Symphony, and later with both of her sons in different musical situations. I remember her telling me once, “I have endless patience for little musicians.” That line stuck with me. It says a lot about how important it is in sharing the arts from one generation to the next.

I’ve also been on that stage for benefit concerts, community events, and different causes over the years. I’ve been paid well, union scale and worked for free.  I’ve seen the theater go through restoration and updates that helped keep it going. A lot of historic theaters around the country didn’t survive. We’re fortunate ours did.

To me, the Missouri Theater is a home for live music, theater, and the arts in St. Joseph. It’s a place where people gather, perform, and experience things together. We play there. We “make play” there.  It’s inspiring just to walk into the building.

I’ve made a lot of friends there and have a lot of good memories in this building.

The Missouri Theater has been part of nearly every stage of my “local” musical life, and I’m grateful for it — and for the next generation of musicians, performers, and audiences who will create even more memories here.

About the Author

Jason Riley is a professional guitarist, performer, and educator based in St. Joseph, Missouri. He is the founder and director of the St. Joseph Arts Academy and has spent nearly three decades teaching guitar at Missouri Western State University and Benedictine College. Jason has recorded and performed widely as both a bandleader and sideman in styles ranging from classical and jazz to rock, bluegrass, and roots music. When he’s not teaching or performing, he still enjoys exploring the possibilities of the diminished scale.

Learn more:
https://stjosephartsacademy.com
https://jasonriley.com
https://socajukebox.com

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“We stole it from a museum,” laughs guitarist Keven Schneider.
“And then we kept stealing… mostly from AC/DC and Led Zeppelin,” adds bassist Glenn Poirier with a grin.

That mix of wit, swagger, and straight-up honesty sums up Under the Influence—a band that’s been rocking audiences for more than thirty years with the kind of friendship, fire, and fun that can’t be faked.

A Name with a Story

The name Under the Influence wasn’t just inspired—it was lifted directly from a Thomas Hart Benton exhibit at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art in the band’s hometown of St. Joseph, Missouri.
“I was working for AKMA at the time, going to college with Jason, when I auditioned for what became our future,” recalls lead vocalist Tyler Osborn.

Back in 1992, Schneider and Poirier were already seasoned “bar bruisers” looking for their next great project. Tyler joined the mix, along with an 18-year-old guitar prodigy, Jason Riley, and the core of UTI was born.

A rotating cast of talented percussionists followed until Charles Stone took the drum throne in 1995—locking in the lineup that’s now been together for 25 years. With the addition of powerhouse backing vocalists Jolie Riley and Leslie Stone, the circle was complete.

From Dive Bars to Big Stages

Under the Influence didn’t just play shows—they built a legacy. The band founded InnerThump Records, releasing an inaugural EP and the full-length albums What Is and Shake Rattle Shatter, produced by platinum-winning engineer Ken Paulakovich.

Whether they’re tearing through classic rock covers, stripping it down for an acoustic set, or delivering fan-favorite originals, UTI plays with rare skill, real heart, and the kind of joy that fills a room—from backyards to amphitheaters.

And they’ve shared stages with some serious rock royalty: The Doobie Brothers, REO Speedwagon, John Cafferty, Johnny Van Zant, .38 Special, Little River Band, Head East, Puddle of Mudd, and Soca Jukebox.

The Numbers Tell the Story

• 30+ years of live music

• 25 years with the current lineup

• Over 2,000 shows played

• Countless memories made with fans and friends

Meet the Band

Jason Riley – Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Vocals
Keven Schneider – Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Vocals
Glenn Poirier – Bass Guitar
Charles Stone – Drums
Tyler Osborn – Lead Vocals
Jolie Riley & Leslie Stone – Vocals

Under the Influence isn’t just a band—it’s a family. Bound by music, laughter, and a love for playing together, they continue to prove that great rock ‘n’ roll never gets old… it just gets better.

Looking for live music near you? Under the Influence is one of the Midwest’s most exciting and enduring rock bands, delivering classic rock, acoustic sets, and original music that keep audiences moving and smiling. Based in St. Joseph, Missouri, we bring high-energy shows to Kansas City, St. Joseph, and venues across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and beyond. Whether you’re searching for the best live music in Kansas City, a classic rock cover band, or a top local band for weddings, festivals, private events, and concerts, Under the Influence delivers unforgettable performances.

Looking for music lessons near you? The St. Joseph Arts Academy offers private music classes and instrument instruction for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re searching for guitar lessons for kids, piano lessons in St. Joseph, violin lessons, drum lessons, singing lessons, or music theory classes, we’re here to help. We provide beginner music lessons, advanced music training, and music education for kids through personalized instruction and fun, engaging music programs for children and adults. Our family music lessons and group options make music part of your home and community. As a trusted St. Joseph music academy and music school in Missouri, we’re proud to offer private music lessons, instrument lessons, music tutoring, and more with expert music teachers in St. Joseph. Discover music classes in St. Joseph, MO and find the perfect fit for your goals.

The post Under the Influence – 3 Decades of Rock, Rhythm & Family appeared first on Jason Riley.

Friday, July 18 – The Soca Jukebox island party hits the beach at Captain Ron’s, Lake of the Ozarks!
6PM showtime, cool drinks, hot grooves, and a Lake sunset you don’t want to miss.

Saturday, July 19 – We head to the skies with Soca Jukebox at the Amelia Earhart Festival in Atchison, KS!
Music starts at 7:30PM with a fireworks finale at dark—pure Americana magic.

Sunday, July 20 – It’s a double feature!
Morning Praise with the team at Wyatt Park Christian Church in St. Joseph, MO at 10AM
Afternoon chill set – SOLO at the scenic Riverwood Winery in Weston, MO at 1PM. Wine, music, and Missouri’s best summer views.

Soca Season is in full swing!
We’re soaking up every note, every sunset, and every stage this summer. Come catch the vibes while you can—the season moves fast, and we’re making the most of it!

Where will we see you this weekend?

#SocaJukebox #LiveMusic #SummerConcerts #MissouriMusic #AtchisonKS #CaptainRons #RiverwoodWinery #JasonRileyMusic #PraiseAndPerform #IslandVibesInland

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One of the greatest joys of my life—both personally and professionally—has been building a music-rich environment for families in our community. At the St. Joseph Arts Academy, we’re passionate about helping students of all ages discover the power of music. And that journey begins at the very beginning—with our youngest learners.

That’s why I’m incredibly proud to share that Jolie Riley, my wife and lifelong partner in both life and music education, is now leading our Early Childhood Music Program at SJAA.

With over 30 years of experience teaching music in public and Catholic schools, Jolie brings a rare combination of joyful spirit, deep expertise, and heartfelt care to every classroom. Her students affectionately call her “Smiley Riley,” and it’s easy to see why. Her warm, welcoming energy creates a space where infants, toddlers, preschoolers—and their families—feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow.

Why Early Childhood Music?

The early years (ages 0–5) are a golden window for brain development. Music at this stage does more than entertain—it strengthens language, coordination, memory, emotional expression, and social interaction. It’s a whole-brain, whole-body experience that plants the seeds for a lifelong love of learning.

Our Early Childhood Music Classes at SJAA are thoughtfully designed by age group:

• Baby Bebop (12–24 months)

• Tune Tykes (Ages 2–3)

• Melody Makers (Ages 4–5)

Classes are offered on Saturdays and Mondays, and they’re quickly becoming a favorite part of the week for dozens of local families.

A Family Legacy in Music

Seeing Jolie step into this leadership role is not just a professional milestone—it’s a personal one. Music has always been at the heart of our home, and now it’s at the heart of our school too. I couldn’t be more excited for the families who will get to learn from her, laugh with her, and grow through music together.

If you’re a parent looking to give your child a strong, joyful start—or know someone who is—I invite you to explore our program and get on the list for the upcoming session starting this September.

Learn more at: stjosephartsacademy.com/early-childhood-music-classes

We’re so grateful to share this musical journey with you and your family.
Thanks for being part of our story.

– Jason Riley
Guitarist | Educator | Music Advocate
JasonRiley.com

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Looking for the perfect live music entertainment to elevate your summer party, wedding, corporate event, or festival? Whether you’re planning a private backyard celebration, booking a dynamic festival lineup, or searching for unforgettable live music for your special event, we’ve got your soundtrack covered.

I’m Jason Riley—guitarist, performer, and collaborator—and I’m thrilled to be back with a full slate of high-energy, family-friendly, and professional performances all summer long. From intimate solo sets to high-octane full bands, we bring the right sound to every setting.

What We Offer:

• Solo Guitar or Guitar/Vocal (perfect for ceremonies, receptions, or background ambiance)

• Jazz & Variety Duos with Kathleen Holeman or other incredible artists

• Powerhouse Party Bands like Soca Jukebox, Under the Influence, and the Michael Shaun Brown Band

• Custom Ensembles to fit your venue, audience, and vibe

We perform across the Midwest at wineries, music festivals, private events, weddings, fundraisers, and more—bringing decades of experience and a seamless blend of musical styles to every stage.

Summer 2025 Live Music Calendar

May 2025

• 5/3 – Soca Jukebox, Weston Wine Festival, Weston MO, 2:30–4:30pm

• 5/10 – Kathleen Holeman & Jason Riley, Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO, 5:30pm

• 5/22 – Solo (PRIVATE), St. Joseph MO, 6–9pm

• 5/24 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1–4pm

• 5/24 – JR Duo, St. Jo Frontier Casino, St. Joseph MO, 6–9pm

• 5/29 – Soca Jukebox, “Friendship Festival Luau,” Lathrop MO

June 2025

• 6/5 – Under the Influence, Concerts in the Park, Savannah MO, 6pm

• 6/6–7 – Michael Shaun Brown Band, Guitars & Cadillacs, Overland Park KS

• 6/14 – Kathleen Holeman & Jason Riley, Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO, 5:30pm

July 2025

• 7/18 – Soca Jukebox, Captain Ron’s, Lake Ozark MO (Time TBA)

• 7/19 – Soca Jukebox, Amelia Earhart Festival, Atchison KS, 7:30pm

• 7/20 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1–4pm

• 7/25 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5–8pm

• 7/30 – Soca Duo, Park Place, Overland Park KS (Time TBA)

August 2025

• 8/1 – Soca Jukebox, Bands on the Bricks, Aurora NE

• 8/2 – Soca Jukebox, Joe’s Honky Tonk, Kearney NE

• 8/7 – Solo, Robidoux Row, St. Joseph MO, 6–8pm

• 8/9 – Soca Jukebox, Platte City Friends of the Arts, Courthouse, 7–9pm

• 8/10 – Soca Jukebox, Imagine Eleven, St. Joseph MO, 6–8pm

• 8/16 – Solo, PRIVATE Wedding, Guitarist

• 8/17 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1–4pm

• 8/22 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5–8pm (TBA)

• 8/23 – Michael Shaun Brown & Jason Riley, (venue TBA)

• 8/30 – Soca Jukebox, Park Place, Overland Park KS

• 8/31 – Soca Jukebox, Hi-Ho, St. Joseph MO

September 2025

• 9/5 – Ignite – Mosaic Life Care Foundation Event, St. Joseph MO

• 9/11 – Soca Jukebox, Parties on the Parkway, St. Joseph MO, 5:30pm

• 9/12 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5–8pm

• 9/13 – Soca Duo, Muddy River Music Festival, Atchison KS

• 9/14 – Solo, Methodist Church, Fairfax MO, 2pm

• 9/21 – Solo, PRIVATE Wedding, Amazonia MO, 3pm

• 9/28 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1–4pm

October 2025

• 10/3–4 – Michael Shaun Brown Band, Guitars & Cadillacs, Overland Park KS, 8pm

Planning a Summer Event?

Book live music that makes your event unforgettable. We still have limited availability for select dates in late summer and early fall. Whether you’re planning:

• A wedding ceremony or reception

• A corporate summer party

• A festival or fair

• A winery or brewery event

• A family reunion or private gathering

…let’s talk!

We customize our performances to your crowd, space, and vision—whether that’s a tropical party with Soca Jukebox, soulful background jazz, country-rock from Michael Shaun Brown, or polished pop/rock with Under the Influence.

Reach out now to reserve your date
Or call/text: (816) [Your Contact Info]

Popular Searches We Can Help You With:

• Live music for weddings in Missouri and Kansas

• Bands for summer festivals 2025

• Book a live guitarist for private events

• Winery entertainment in the Midwest

• High-energy party bands for corporate events

• Caribbean/Island-themed live music for parties

• Live jazz duo for cocktail hours

• Summer concert series entertainers

Let’s make this your best summer of music yet.
See you at the show!

Jason Riley
www.JasonRiley.com
Live Music • Guitarist • Band Leader • Event Pro

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As both a performing musician and a passionate educator, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful music can be in people’s lives—especially for kids. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s this: there’s no wrong time to start making music. But summer might just be the best time.

At the St. Joseph Arts Academy, where I teach and help guide students and families on their musical journey, we’re coming off an incredible spring. We’ve freshened up the building with new paint, cleared the clutter with a major clean-up, and held our first “St. Joseph Kids Make Music Day,” which was a joyful, music-filled open house where we welcomed new faces and celebrated our love of music with the community.

Now, as we head into summer, I want to encourage every student, family, and future musician out there to keep the momentum going.

Why Keep Up Music Lessons in the Summer?

Summer often gets a reputation for being “off time” from structured learning—but I believe it’s actually the perfect opportunity to grow musically.

Without the pressure of school, many students finally have the time and headspace to:

• Explore a new instrument they’ve always been curious about

• Dive into a new style of music

• Practice more intentionally

• Double up lessons or try something creative and outside the box

At the Academy, we don’t shut down for summer—we ramp up. We perform at local events like the Museum Art Fair and Hawkfest Jazz & Blues Festival, and we welcome new students looking for meaningful, enriching summer activities that aren’t just more screen time.

Flexibility for Busy Schedules

I get it—families travel, kids head to camp, and routines get unpredictable. That’s why we’ve built flexible options into our summer programs, including:

• Virtual lessons if you’re out of town

• Video lessons that students can replay anytime

• 5th-week and alternate time makeups

• Guest instructors and specialty clinics

• The option to send a sibling or friend in your place

• Or even donate your lesson time to a deserving student at the YWCA or Noyes Home

We’ll work with your schedule. Just let us know how we can help.

Prime Lesson Times Don’t Last Long

If your student has a favorite teacher or a prime after-school slot, like Monday at 4:00 PM, summer is the time to hang onto it. We don’t pause during the summer, and those lesson times stay in demand. Staying enrolled means no scramble in the fall to get back in.

Summer Music Lessons = Confidence, Growth, and Fun

One of my favorite things as a teacher is watching students come back to school in the fall with more confidence, sharper skills, and a deeper love for their instrument—all because they kept going during the summer.

So if you’re thinking about starting lessons, or wondering whether it’s worth continuing through the summer, my answer is: absolutely. Let’s keep the music going—and make it one of the best parts of your summer.

Reach out anytime. I’d love to help you or your child find the right path, the right teacher, and the right groove.

Keep playing,
Jason Riley
Guitarist • Performer • Music Educator
StJosephArtsAcademy.com

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If you’re passionate about performing or helping others learn the language of music, we’re hiring — and we might be looking for you.

At both Jason Riley Live and the St. Joseph Arts Academy, we believe in the power of music to enrich lives, build community, and create unforgettable moments — whether it’s on stage, in the classroom, or behind the scenes.

Our motto: Live Music. Learn Music.
It’s more than a tagline — it’s a lifestyle.

Who We’re Looking For:

Live Music Performers & Bands

We’re expanding our roster of professional musicians and ensembles for:

• Weddings & private parties

• Festivals & special events

• Corporate gigs & community concerts

• Seasonal shows & signature performances

We’re looking for pros who can bring great music and positive vibes to a variety of settings — jazz, classical, pop, rock, instrumental, vocal, solo, duo, full bands. You know who you are.

“If you can play, show up on time, and make people feel something — we need to talk.”

Private & Group Music Instructors

Join the teaching team at the St. Joseph Arts Academy, the largest private music school in Northwest Missouri. We’re hiring for:

• Piano

• Voice

• Guitar

• Violin, viola, cello & strings

• Drums & percussion

• Band instruments (woodwinds, brass)

• Early childhood specialists

Administrative & Office Staff

Not a musician? No problem.
We also need friendly, organized, tech-savvy individuals for:

• Front desk & reception

• Office support

• Sales & client onboarding

We’re looking for people who love people — and who want to be part of a team that makes a difference through the arts.

Why Work With Us?

Whether you’re performing live or helping students grow, here’s what we offer:

• Flexible scheduling & autonomy

• Great hourly pay (and yes, you’re paid even if a student cancels)

• A clean, professional workspace with top-notch resources

• No billing or collections — we handle it all

• Studio instruments (pianos, keyboards, etc.)

• Dedicated office staff to support your teaching

• Access to performance opportunities & community events

• Book ordering, copier/printer access, bottled water, kitchenette, and… Cookie Days!

Plus: You’ll be part of a mission-driven, joyful team that loves music as much as you do.

Ready to Apply?

Location: 2027 N. 36th Street, St. Joseph, MO
Phone: (816) 974-7656
Apply Today: https://stjosephartsacademy.com/apply/

Whether you’re looking to Live Music or Learn Music, we’re growing — and we’d love to grow with you. Let’s make music happen.

The post Now Hiring: Musicians, Bands, Educators & Admins to Join Our Creative Team in St. Joseph MO appeared first on Jason Riley.

If you’re searching for the best live music near Kansas City and St. Joseph, MO, look no further than Jason Riley—a dynamic and versatile guitarist known for his electrifying performances, exceptional technique, and genre-defying style. Whether on stage as a solo artist, leading a full band, or performing alongside orchestras, Jason delivers an unforgettable live music experience that captivates audiences of all ages.

A Master Guitarist Across Multiple Styles

Jason Riley’s career spans recording, composing, teaching, and performing across a wide range of musical genres. With a background in classical guitar and commercial music, his expertise extends to American roots, jazz improvisation, rock, blues, and more. This deep musical foundation allows Jason to blend styles seamlessly, creating performances that are both technically masterful and emotionally powerful.

A Proven Recording Artist & Performer

As a recording artist, Jason has released four solo albums showcasing his originality and ability to reinvent traditional sounds:

• Notes to Self – Original compositions
• Outtakes – Unique arrangements of traditional works
• Spirit of Things – Traditional American spirituals
• Funky Folk – A fusion of folk melodies and classical influences

Beyond his solo work, Jason’s guitar playing has been featured on numerous albums with other national and international artists, further cementing his reputation as one of the best guitarists in the region.

Unmatched Live Performance & Stage Presence

Jason’s live performances are a must-see, featuring a high-energy mix of improvisation, live looping, and creative technical effects. His ability to shift effortlessly between soft and subtle acoustic moments to high-powered, aggressive electric solos makes him a standout performer in live music venues, festivals, and private events. Whether he’s swinging through a jazz number, rocking out on an electric solo, or delivering a heartfelt acoustic ballad, Jason’s performances reflect his deep appreciation for music and his audience.

Acclaimed Musician & Educator

Jason’s talent has earned him multiple competition wins and reader’s poll awards in both the rock and country genres. He has also opened for and collaborated with renowned artists while making frequent radio and television appearances.

Beyond the stage, Jason is dedicated to music education. He serves as an adjunct professor of guitar at Benedictine College and Missouri Western State University, inspiring students to develop their craft. His work as a guitar teacher helps students of all levels master technique, musicality, and confidence in their playing.

Book the Best Live Music in Kansas City & St. Joseph, MO

Looking for the best live bands, solo performances, or professional guitar instruction? Jason Riley delivers a one-of-a-kind live music experience that elevates any event. Whether you’re booking for a wedding, corporate event, festival, or private concert, Jason’s versatility and passion for music make him the perfect choice.

For booking inquiries, upcoming shows, or guitar lessons, visit jasonriley.com and follow Jason on social media to stay updated on his latest performances!

Discography

• 1997 – What Is (Under the Influence)
• 1999 – Shake Rattle Shatter (Under the Influence)
• 2001 – Notes to Self (Jason Riley)
• 2001 – Outtakes (Jason Riley)
• 2003 – Spirit of Things (Jason Riley)
• 2005 – Hambone (Pig Farmer)
• 2007 – Mountain Oysters (Pig Farmer)
• 2010 – Live at Cafe Acoustic (The Nova Project)
• 2011 – Funky Folk (Jason Riley)
• 2012 – Makin’ Bacon (Pig Farmer)
• 2013 – Moon Colored Jade (Maria The Mexican)
• 2014 – Live Voodoo & Live Voodoo Too (Soca Jukebox)
• 2015 – Lay You Down – Single (Soca Jukebox)
• 2016 – South of the Border Moonlight (Maria The Mexican)
• 2017 – Life Again (Shawn Minter)
• 2018 – The Ark (Under The Big Oak Tree)
• 2018 – This is Soca Jukebox (Soca Jukebox)
• 2018 – Jason Riley (Jason Riley)

Keywords: best live music near Kansas City, best live music St. Joseph MO, best guitarist, best live bands, best guitar teacher, Kansas City live music, St. Joseph MO guitarist, live music booking, wedding guitarist, private event guitarist, festival performer.

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1/11 – Solo, The Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO 530

1/17 – Soca Duo, Brew Lab, Overland Park, KS 7pm

1/25 – Solo, The Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO 530 

2/4 – Solo, St. Joseph Chamber Great Northwest Days, Jefferson City MO, 5-8pm

2/16 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

3/1 – Kathleen Holeman & Jason Riley, The Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO 530

3/9 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

3/20 – Soca Duo, Blish Mize Spring Market, Overland Park, KS, 4-7pm

3/28 – Brew Lab, Soca Duo, Brew Lab Overland Park KS, 730pm 

4/5-8 – Music Academy Conference, Nashville, TN

4/12 –  Kathleen Holeman & Jason Riley, The Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO 530

4/13 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

4/25 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm TBA

4/29 –  Kathleen Holeman & Jason Riley, The Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO 530

5/3 – Soca Jukebox, Weston Wine Festival, Weston Mo, 230-430

5/10 –  Kathleen Holeman & Jason Riley, The Cafe Belle Epoque, St. Joseph MO 530
5/24 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

6/5 – Under the Influence, Concerts in the Park, Savannah MO, 6pm

6/6 – Michael Shaun Brown, Guitars & Cadillacs, Overland Park KS TBA

6/7 – Michael Shaun Brown, Guitars & Cadillacs, Overland Park KS TBA

7/18 – Soca Jukebox, Captain Ron’s, Lake Ozark MO TBA

7/20 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

7-25 –  Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm TBA

7/30 – Soca Duo, Park Place, Overland Park KS TBA

8/1 – Soca Jukebox, Aurora NE TBA

8/2 – Soca Jukebox, Cunningham’s Journal, Kearney NE TBA  

8/7 – Solo, Robidoux Row, St. Joseph Mo, 6-8pm
8/9 – Soca Jukebox, Platte City Friends of the Arts, Courthouse, 7-9 TBA

8/10 – Soca Jukebox, Imagine Eleven, St. Joseph MO 6-8pm

8/16 – Solo, PRIVATE Wedding

8/17 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

8/22 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm TBA

8/23 – Michael Shaun Brown & Jason Riley, TBA

8/30 – Soca Jukebox, Park Place, Overland Park KS, TBA

8/31 – Soca Jukebox, Hi-Ho, St. Joseph MO TBA

9/12 – Soca Duo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 5-8pm TBA

9/13 – Soca Duo, Muddy River Music Festival, Atchison KS, TBA

9/28 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

10/3 – Michael Shaun Brown, Guitars & Cadillacs, Overland Park, KS, 8pm TBA

10/4 – Michael Shaun Brown, Guitars & Cadillacs, Overland Park, KS, 8pm TBA

11/15 – Solo, Riverwood Winery, Rushville MO, 1-4pm

12/12 – Michael Shaun Brown TBA

12/13 – Soca Jukebox, Parrotheads of KC, Christmas Party TBA

*More Special Events & Performances TBA!!

www.socajukebox.com

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