Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Island Park Library will soon be filled with the sounds of timeless melodies and a message of unity as pianist and vocalist Jay Daniels, 36, takes the stage this Saturday at 2 p.m. Daniels, a seasoned performer with a deep appreciation for classic tunes, will present his concert What the World Needs Now, a program dedicated to spreading warmth and connection through music.
The upcoming performance is part of Daniels’ extensive work bringing music to libraries and senior living communities. A full-time musician based in Collingswood, New Jersey, Daniels has crafted a career blending live performance with a heartfelt approach to musical storytelling.
“I’m a storyteller, and so themes really helped me to keep grounded, and it gives me purpose, Daniels said. “And the time that the guests are there, it gives them purpose too.”
A Life in Music
Daniels’ musical journey began early in his life, inspired by his grandfather, who played the organ and sang in a small church in Mineral, Virginia, where Daniels grew up.
“Music was always around me,” he recalled. “My dad’s family on his paternal and maternal side, they all had the gift of music. None of them really took it seriously, but they all had a musical ear. I had a natural ear for it, but I didn’t realize how gifted I was until years later.”
He began taking piano lessons at age seven and later worked in radio broadcasting, including jazz radio and a syndicated program. However, in 2015, he committed fully to music, performing themed concerts for audiences across the Northeast. Today, he plays a mix of classic standards, Broadway favorites, and jazz-infused pieces, continuing to refine his vocal talents under the guidance of Sarah Partridge and Michael Forest, a former tenor at the Metropolitan Opera.
From Harlem to Island Park
Daniels, who previously lived in Harlem, has maintained strong ties to the New York region despite relocating to South Jersey. He frequently performs at libraries, including those in Massapequa, West Hempstead, and Queens, and is set to perform at North Merrick Library on Memorial Day weekend with a Rodgers & Hammerstein-themed program.
“I won’t turn down that gig if Radio City calls, but I’m telling you, I believe that theres a certain exchange of emotional energy in these environments like we’re going to see over at Island Park,” Daniels said. “I don’t mind driving two and a half three hours, like I will on March 8 to come to see folks, because what I get in return makes it all worth it.”
His connection to Island Park Library came through a monthly promotional email he sends to venues. Library director Jessica Koenig reached out after seeing his offerings and was particularly interested in What the World Needs Now. The concert, built around the beloved Burt Bacharach and Hal David song, emphasizes the universal need for love and kindness—a message Daniels believes is more relevant than ever.
“Regardless of where you fall on the social and political spectrum, I think we can all agree that the world could use a lot more love these days,” he said.
A Special Performance
For Daniels, each concert is about more than just the music—it’s about connection.
“Music brings people together in a way that few things can,” he shares. “I hope this concert leaves everyone feeling a little lighter, a little more hopeful.”
Island Park Library invites the community to join Jay Daniels on March 8 at 2 p.m for a night of timeless music and an inspiring message. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
