JAM Magazine is focusing on Jazz Education in May. A subject that takes on many forms. We have NOT covered it all, we’ve simply touched on a few bright highlights. We sincerely hope that you can get out and support the music you love.
We attended Java Jazz at Staley High School on April 20th, a spirited, well attended affair in a bright clean and friendly facility. Dr. Meara Mitchell leads a band that is stunning in their ability to go for it like seasoned veterans. BRAVO!
The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra presents Riff Generation May 12 and June 9th in the Medallion Theater, information at www.kcjo.org jazz education for those who have learned and want to take creating music to the highest level.
We spoke with Toni Oliver, who has run a real-deal home spun school out of her home for decades, they will strut their stuff on June 24th at 2pm in the Watkins Cultural Center. Be sure to scroll down and read the letter, written by a former student and ‘like’ Toni and her efforts on Facebook.
Alan Voss lives in The Englewood Arts District. At 51, he’s released his debut album.
Chris and Terri Burnett, of Leavenworth, run one of the most successful jazz record labels out of their home. For the past five years they have created a world-class internationally released recording of local up-and-comers as their donation to local jazz ed.
Bill Brownlee reviews a new book on Kansas City Jazz that could be the textbook of the future.
JAZZ Spoken Here played at Westport Coffeehouse Theater, May 7th. They are all certified Jazz Education Royalty.
Then there is Pat Metheny, 20 time Grammy winner, and a cover by Larry Kopitnik, coming home to play the Kauffman on June 15th. He gives us a word or two of genuine hope in a world of seeming continuous pain. Oh yeah, his parents were quite concerned the boy would have to wash cars for a living, until a college recruiter showed up at there Lee’s Summit home. Pat attended college for 6 months, then he taught the classes himself.
Editor