The International Jazz Hall of Fame is about more than just honoring those of us who have been around for a while. It is about educating the public about our music and most importantly, it is providing the opportunity for our young people to develop their talents that are needed for their future
Dizzy Gillespie (Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient)
One of the main focuses of the International Jazz Hall of Fame is education of children. It is a proven fact that when a child is involved in learning to play an instrument, or any other form of music education, they tend to do better in math and science – often excelling in both. The discipline and concentration required to study music provides a base for all of their other courses.
By creating specific programs for neighborhood children and other children from around the country and around the globe, utilizing the talents of current Jazz Masters as well as the Legends of Jazz, along with the talents from various other music genres such as Hip-Hop and Rap to teach and inspire, the IJHF hopes to help children have a better chance of developing a more well rounded and successful life.
It is essential that future generations understand the history and importance of Jazz as a unique American form of music. The IJHF Education provides a better understanding of the heritage of Jazz. It also provides a base for future endeavors and will help herald in the next generation of future Jazz greats for decades to come, along with educating the next generation on this important form of American music.
One of the programs The IJHF is developing includes creating a presence in Middle and High Schools by the International Jazz Hall of Fame President, Mr. Norman Brander along with IJHOF staff and professional musicians. Discussions with school officials include programs for students that they help to create.
Veteran Jazz musician participants provide students with a grounding in the history of Jazz, Important teaching points include:
Additionally for those students who intend to pursue Jazz as a profession, The IJHF develops Master Classes with Veteran Jazz Musicians for eligible advanced and/or older students.
With many makers of fine instruments donating those instruments to the IJHF, we are able to provide the tools for educating all students who wish to have an opportunity to better their futures.