Jazz Outreach Initiative’s mission is as beautiful as the sounds it creates…
The English language can sometimes be frustrating, but acronyms make it fun. For instance, JOI stands for “Jazz Outreach Initiative”. And JJO stands for “Joi Jazz Orchestra”, which includes members from JOI. Did you get that?
What’s important to know is that the musicians pictured above are special people. Not only do they perform in their own bands, shows, and gigs, but come together regularly for music with a philanthropic purpose. The goal is to inspire, fund, teach, and share their preferred genre of music across all generations:
JOI was founded to fill a need in the community for greater exposure to jazz studies and awareness, focusing on students of all ages. Through festivals, clinics, “Band Directors Academy,” “Jazz for Young People Concerts”, and other outreach programs, JOI celebrates the great American art form by promoting it through the next generation of performers, audiences, and consumers.
Ann Parenti introduces a music scholarship recipient at the 2023 VIVA Awards
Ann Parenti is the Executive Director of the Forgotten Song Foundation. This organization is “dedicated to recognizing, remembering, and sustaining the visual artists and performance artistry of live music for future generations.” They are proud to support the work of Jazz Outreach Initiative:
Kenny Rampton, Gary Cordell, and Donny Thompson
Along with co-founders Kenny Rampton and Gary Cordell…and a bevy of who’s who board members…JOI has become not only an affiliate of the famed Jazz at Lincoln Center but one of the most respected jazz nonprofits in the nation.
Young and old flock to “JOIFUL JAZZ Wednesdays” at NOTORIETY LIVE
If there is one thing that Jazz Outreach Initiative strives to achieve, it’s overcoming the notion that jazz music is somehow “at risk,” or “needs to be kept alive.” Donny feels the opposite is true:
“JOI knows that jazz isn’t just relevant, but thriving and very much alive. Its messaging tells us that if you’re not aware, you’re missing out on something cool. There’s a reason young people flocked to see Tony Bennett“, Donny added. “There’s a reason people flock to Lady Gaga‘s jazz shows. They don’t want to be left out of something exceptional and exciting. This music is exciting… and really cool!”
JOI at NOTORIETY LIVE 7/17/24
If you’d like to know about upcoming programs, performances, or ways to volunteer or donate, visit the official JAZZ OUTREACH INITIATIVE website by clicking here.
In Part Two, we’ll delve into the evolution of JAZZ OUTREACH INITIATIVE, the individuals who make it possible, programs that strengthen our community, and the kick-ass performances that put new fans in the seats every time.
