OK, so we BENT THE RULES!

As we begin the Jazz Arts Group’s 38th season, I want to admit that we have bent the rules. “Bend the Rules” was our group’s theme four seasons past. We have done so and excelled with the concept. Thanks to a culture of innovation, creativity, and humor, we are the largest independent jazz organization in the country. Better yet, we are a preeminent nationally-recognized performance organization known throughout the jazz community. We have expanded our offerings to the Columbus community with JazZoo, PBJ & Jazz, Inside Track and the Jazz Academy at the “new” Lincoln Theatre.

Our artistic evolution is being driven by the inimitable Byron Stripling – who had no problem bending the rules. I hope you have seen and appreciated the changes in Byron’s programs that have included a reverence for Satchmo, the Duke, and the Count, while bringing us “Rhapsody in Blue” scored for big band, and “Amazing Grace.” Bobby Floyd is making many of us new jazz organ fans. Oh yeah, we did Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” in the midst of a great classic jazz sax concert, and laughed with our friend Willie Pooch at the blues concerts, too. Byron bent the rules – and we liked it.

Our Jazz Academy now gives instruction to students of all ages and has created some camps with the YMCA for children and basic/advanced courses of all varieties. A recent blues camp featured a session ending concert with 10 and 60+ year old performers in the same band – I wonder who had more fun? Our donors have also created scholarships to give the talented and motivated students the chance to be the next Byron, Bobby, or Hank Marr. The Jazz Academy is creating new concepts in education for all.

We want you to be entertained, intrigued, and intellectually tickled by what we do. As you leave the theatres, zoo, or Jazz Academy, there should be a smile on your face and a little pep in your step – or we’ll change the rules. We’re that way…you know.

Jim Barnes, President
JAG Board of Directors