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Roots of Jazz
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The Roots of
Jazz program introduces students to one of America’s
most important artistic forces—jazz music.
The interaction
between generations of jazzers establishes an essential
link between the past and present. This link is how
jazz traditions, as musical knowledge, are passed along.
As Seattle continues to enrich its jazz scene, educational
programs help to reinvigorate jazz's tradition while
continuing to cultivate the talents of the future.
Photo: Floyd Standifer (1929-2007) performing at the 2005 Earshot Jazz Festival, Legends of Seattle Jazz concert. Photo by Daniel Sheehan.
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Earshot
takes great pride in being able to program an opportunity
that has served over 30,000 students and that has instigated
a communication and connection between jazz's journeymen and
juniors that remains so vital to the art. As Seattle continues
to enrich its jazz scene, educational programs help to reinvigorate
jazz's tradition while continuing to cultivate the talents
of the future.
Throughout the assembly, the
musicians provide a basic explanation of jazz, present its
beginnings in America, and introduce some of its major contributors.
By demonstrating traditional and non-traditional jazz instruments
the students learn about the three basic elements of the music
-- rhythm, call and response (sharing), and improvisation
(doing your own thing). Some students even get to participate
in the composition of a spontaneous piece.
Staging Requirements
The program is suitable for
schools, libraries, and community centers. If you have specific
questions about the performance content or staging requirements,
please contact Earshot Jazz Society at 206-547-6763 or jazz@earshot.org.
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Audience:
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Grades 1-8 |
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Audience Size:
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300 ideal; 1,000 maximum |
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Length:
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50 minutes |
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Set-up Time:
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45 minutes |
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Tear Down Time:
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45 minutes |
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Performance Area:
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30 ft wide by 15 ft deep |
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Requirements:
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1 dressing room and black
board. Stage NOT required. |
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Preferences:
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Students seated on the floor,
by class |
Local 493 Reunion Band
The Local 493 Reunion Band takes its name
from the segregated musician’s union that existed in
Seattle until 1957. The Local 493 Reunion Band celebrates
the cultural heritage of jazz in the African American experience.
As a result of their successful touring performances through
the Washington State Arts Commission’s Arts In Education
Programs, The Local 493 Reunion Band was invited to perform
at the Governor’s Arts and Heritage Awards in Olympia
in 1994.
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| Earshot
Jazz is a Seattle based nonprofit music, arts and service organization
formed in 1984 to support jazz and increase awareness in the
community. Earshot Jazz publishes a monthly newsletter,
presents creative music and educational programs, assists jazz
artists, increases listenership, complements existing services
and programs, and networks with the national and international
jazz community. |
