Each of us has followed a different pathway to jazz.

For my parents, it was ubiquitous — the dance music of their day, the soundtrack of their lives. For me, it has been a series of detours.

My pathway to jazz came through rock and blues music. As a 13-year old guitarist, I devoured the raw, recycled blues of Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, and the Rolling Stones. At 15, my older brother turned me on to the fusion of Chick Corea, Return to Forever, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Jeff Beck. For the musicians, and for me, it was an age of discovery.

Throughout high school and college, I explored the more traditional branches of the genre, including Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie. Parker. Davis. Coltrane. Sinatra. Armstrong. It didn’t matter that I was discovering the music, in some cases, fifty years after it happened. It’s still happening, and it’s still relevant. And, best of all, years later, I’m still discovering.

I am honored and privileged to lead the Jazz Arts Group board for the 2009-2010 season, its 37th year. Byron Stripling and the Columbus Jazz Orchestra continue to explore the many pathways of jazz, always raising the bar of excellence along the way. Bob’s vision of a Jazz Academy — a place where young and old will learn and explore the many pathways of jazz — has become a reality at the newly-renovated Lincoln Theatre. I guarandoggonetee you, when you see the breadth and depth of classes being offered, you’ll be impressed. Yes, this is Columbus and we’ve got the best that jazz has to offer!

What was your pathway to jazz? What does the music mean to you? Check out Jazz Arts Group on Facebook and tell us your story.

Daniel K. Weiss, President
JAG Board of Directors