The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Newport County (“ACA”) has announced that the 2024 LeRoy White Soul & Conscience Award will be awarded to local musician Chase Ceglie. The award was established in 2022 to honor LeRoy White, a well-known Newport musician who died in 2021. It is given annually to a musician whose life and/or art connect the community.
Chase Ceglie graduated from Rogers High School and the Berklee School of Music before returning to Newport to make music as a saxophonist and pop recording artist. He shares his passion for music through private lessons and as a faculty member at Salve Regina University and the East Bay MET School (via the Newport Festivals Foundation). Ceglie also organizes the NEE JAM, a free, inclusive musical gathering held regularly at the Firehouse Theater in Newport. He resides in Tiverton, RI.
“The ACA is delighted to honor Chase Ceglie with the 2024 LeRoy White Soul & Conscience Award,” said board chair Susan Woythaler. “His contributions to the music scene in our community reflect his talent and his generosity, making him an ideal candidate for this award.” The 2023 award was given to Greg “Greggy Good” Ferreira, a Newport musician known for his vibrant and diverse repertoire. Individuals may be nominated by others or may nominate themselves for the $5,000 award.
LeRoy White, who died in 2021, was a longtime Newporter who brought his music to concerts, parades, and unexpected venues. He played and prayed for peace and amity among people. His family and the ACA seek to honor his legacy by offering the award to a musician who embodies the spirit of his gift to Newport and the world.
The award will be presented at the ACA’s “Raise Up the Arts” event on June 26, 2024. The event will be held at Johnny’s at the Wyndham Newport in Middletown. The Artist Award, the Dominique Award, and the Tinney Family Arts Scholarship will also be presented at the event. Tickets are $30; more information may be found at www.newportarts.org.
