NYS Music 202​2

Tag: national jazz museum

  • The National Jazz Museum in Harlem Announces August Events

    Throughout the month of August, The National Jazz Museum in Harlem will offer five unique programs to celebrate the Afro-Latin roots of jazz music. From August 6 to August 30, attendees can listen, learn, and celebrate the long-lasting traditions of the genre.

    The National Jazz Museum in Harlem aims to “preserve, promote, and present jazz by inspiring knowledge, appreciation and the celebration of jazz” in all areas. With exhibits, educational programs, panels, concerts, and more the center continues its commitment to the genre. With Artistic Directors Jon Batiste and Christian McBride, the museum offers inspiring experiences.

    Starting on August 6 at 1 p.m., Jaambo will lead a city-wide dance party on the steps of the National Arts Club. Co-founded by percussionist Baba Don Eaton, Jaambo’s sound and groove will get you moving.  Baba Don Eaton currently also teaches African drumming and has previously recorded with jazz artists such as Donald Brown, Joe Henderson, and Jason Linder.

    Two bands will lead the programming on August 11: brass band Funky Dawgs and the Afro-Latin Jazz ensemble Uptown Royalty NYC. This energetic concert at the Harlem State Office Building will begin at 6 p.m. for a great night of dance music. 

    More August events include Colombian pro music from Martin Vejarano on August 25 at 2 p.m. followed by solo pianist Ahmed Alom at 7 p.m. Alom’s concert will explore early African-American ragtime and the Cuban danzon among other musical forms.

    The programmings and celebration of Afro-Latin Jazz will end on August 30 with a panel discussion led by Zack O’Farrill at 7 p.m. The event will include the insight and inspiration of young artists in the Afro-Latin genre and how they are honoring and expanding its music traditions.

    For more information about the August programs and exhibits, visit the museum’s website.

  • “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” Exhibit opens at the National Jazz Museum in Harlem

    The National Jazz Museum in Harlem proudly introduces their new exhibition to the public, “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” opening on Friday, Feb. 11th, coinciding with Black History Month. Additionally, the exhibition features the new Disney movie, SOUL.

    The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure
    The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure

    American pianist, band leader, and jazz musician, Jon Batiste, provides the original jazz compositions and arrangements for “Soul,” and shares his excitement for “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure.”

    National Jazz Museum emphasizes a vision “to make jazz accessible to everyone on the planet,” one echoed by Carmen Smith:

    Like the film that inspired this exhibit, ‘The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure’ is a tribute to the human experience. It was here in Harlem that jazz not only became an international sensation, but a vehicle for social change. The genre’s enduring influence is a palpable example of the barriers that can be broken when ambition and artistry meet passion and purpose. We’re proud to partner with the National Jazz Museum to preserve and celebrate that special kind of magic.

    Carmen Smith, Senior Vice President, Creative Development – Product/Content & Inclusive Strategies.

    In the Harlem Museum, the exhibit will include a unique collection of artifacts including items highlighting the career of pianist and jazz icon, Dr. Billy Taylor. Additionally, appearances of characters Joe Gardner and Dorothea Williams, and virtual experiences on the Play Disney Parks app. 

    The National Jazz Museum
    The National Jazz Museum

    The overall mission of National Jazz Museum in Harlem’s is to “preserve, promote and present Jazz by inspiring knowledge, appreciation and the celebration of jazz locally, nationally and internationally.” To further promote the educational purposes of jazz music and history, the museum offers four Core Programs: Education; Exhibits & Collections; and Partnerships & Collaborations. 

    The National Jazz Museum
    The National Jazz Museum

    Free reserve-time ticketing is required, no walk-ins allowed. However, you can reserve tickets up to one month in advance. As well, The National Jazz Museum in Harlem is open Thursday to Saturday from 12PM to 5PM, and proof of vaccination is required for all visitors 5 years of age and older. To reserve tickets, times are available at Eventbrite.