This past November 4-7 was the North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA) Conference in Winston-Salem. The largest gathering of music educators in the state with well over 1,000 attendees, this year’s theme was “Inspire Harmony.” The JazzArts All-Star Youth Ensemble had their inaugural performance at the conference in front of an appreciative and impressed audience. Congratulations to the students and their director, Lovell Bradford. Also, faculty members of the JazzArts Academy presented an educational clinic entitled “Jazz Rhythm Section Tune-Up” which presented pedagogical topics such as voicings, walking bass lines, and drum grooves. The clinic featured Lovell Bradford, Troy Conn, Dave Vergato, Geoff Clapp, and was moderated by our Education Director, Patrick Brown.

NCMEA Jazz Chair Tina Robinett noted: “Your session on the “Rhythm Section Tune-Up” with the JazzArts rhythm section faculty was a favorite getting rave reviews from all who attended, demonstrating real-time issues students have and how to address them for a better sounding rhythm section in minutes. Also, I was personally blown away by the student performance of the JazzArts All-Stars Combo under the direction of Lovell Bradford. I am excited to see, hear, and spread the word of the great things happening at JazzArts Charlotte this year.”

Additionally, JazzArts Charlotte had an exhibitor booth which led to many wonderful conversations with music educators and students. It was exciting to share information about our programs and inform the state about how “Jazz Lives Here” in Charlotte. Thank you to NCMEA Jazz Chair Tina Robinett for having us and to those who attended. We look forward to continuing to be a part of this annual conference.