We’re getting back into the groove as we head into another year of Jazz in Schools! Jazz Arts Group aims to create lifelong jazz enthusiasts by introducing kids to jazz at an early age and reaching them where they already are- school!

Our education programming kicks off with Pre-K learners through our Jumpin’ JaKs program, an in school, 4-visit series that gets kids excited about music, introduces jazz vocabulary, and encourages creativity. Each class is run by an experienced musician and educator guiding students as they explore music, instruments, movement, games, and story time all while developing fundamental skills and an appetite for jazz!

One Pre-K educator commented, “The activities reached all developmental levels of the children in my class. I cannot say enough how much my entire class loved this experience. It was amazing to see 100% class participation (including myself).” 

All that Jazz engages fourth grade students in a multi-week jazz curriculum cultivated by Jazz Arts Group and taught by their school music teacher. Students dive into the wonderful world of jazz, learning all about its history, patterns, instruments, vocabulary, and more. The whole class is then invited to an interactive concert at the Southern Theatre, presented by the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, where students have the opportunity to see the concepts they learned in their classrooms come alive on the stage. 

“The students were completely joyful watching this concert- It was accessible, involved audience participation, and was inspiring for everyone in attendance. I loved seeing the joy that this program brought to my kids’ faces…many of whom may never have had an opportunity like this before.” 

– CCS Music Educator

Jazz in Schools continues to inspire students’ interest in jazz through Jazz Residencies- a program in which renowned guest artists and top tier educators visit local middle and high schools to engage students in masterclasses and presentations. Hearing and learning from accomplished professional musicians is highly valuable as they lend their expertise and experience to students, encouraging them to deepen their involvement with and commitment to music. 

“I feel that the most important aspect of what they [JAG] do[es] is to bring local and nationally known artists to my school for workshops and clinics. My students are so excited that they are receiving instruction from people who are “out there doing it.” It is great when the professionals tell them that they started in their school music program and if they work hard my students could become great musicians also. My rehearsals are fantastic after the visits.” 

– Sam Richardson, Band Director, Columbus Alternative HS. 

Jazz Arts group’s in- school programming reaches thousands of students throughout Columbus City Schools and beyond. By nurturing a love and appreciation for jazz in the next generation, we preserve the legacy of the artform and ensure its endurance.

Support for our Jazz in Schools programming is gratefully accepted through our online giving platform or by following mail-in instructions. Interested in legacy giving or sponsorship opportunities? Please reach out to Kelly Hebblethwaite Johnson, VP of Development. We’re eager to hear what inspires you and work with you to make your giving priorities a reality!