As a kickoff to its 10th year anniversary, at the kickoff of Jazz Appreciation Month, JazzArts Charlotte celebrated with non-other than 9 time Grammy Award winner and first ever Jazz Pulitzer Prize winner Wynton Marsalis. And as usual, the JazzArts Charlotte students were right there.

“Music teaches that it’s OK to be yourself, when you learn improvisation. And that it’s OK for others to be themselves. The music then offers a common bond.” These words of wisdom from guest Marsalis demonstrate what jazz training means to this local nonprofit and its students.

That same week, various groups of JazzArts Youth Ensemble students enjoyed their weekly rehearsals together, performed at the Charlotte Business Journal’s Most Honored CEO Awards, played at Aldersgate Retirement Community, and participated in a Jazz in Schools assembly at Charlotte Latin School.

“Whether the student is just learning jazz for the first time with a small group, or is ready for professional level experience, our wide range of programs provide the support they need,” says JazzArts Charlotte CEO Lonnie Davis.

JazzArts Charlotte believes in the power of music education and its ability to impact lives. Since 2011, the JazzArts Academy has served over 50,000 students, grades K-12 throughout the Charlotte region.

If this sounds like something your student might want to explore, the JazzArts Music Camp is an exciting one-week comprehensive music training program devoted to America’s original art form: JAZZ.   More information here.