Community programs
VCU jazz faculty, staff and students spend much of their time working with organizations in the Richmond area and beyond to expand the jazz community and encourage youth to pursue their interests in music.
A reunion between Branford Marsalis (center) and
Jazz Studies Director Antonio Garcia — who have
known each other since high school — with VCU
alumnus and saxophonist John Winn (right).
High school ensembles and jazz improvisation workshops allow young musicians to collaborate with other talented jazz students for large- and small-ensemble performances, as well as attend master classes conducted by VCU Jazz Studies faculty. Students also have the opportunity to show off their jazz composition and piano skills by participating in competitions that partner VCU with local businesses to recognize outstanding high school musicians.
Middle and high school students have received performances and workshops with VCU Jazz faculty, students and alumni through Richmond CenterStage's educational program Jazz 21: The Voice of Social Change. Through Partners in the Arts grants, VCU Jazz Studies faculty have joined with local schools to teach jazz elements and history to children. In addition, several adjunct faculty members have formed the Mary Morton Parson Jazz Masters to provide jazz instruction and appreciation for students throughout the Richmond region and beyond.
“Jazz is a true American art form showing freedom through individual expression.”
— David Brogan, student
Several past initiatives have also led to collaborations between VCU Jazz Studies and other university departments, as well as local and national organizations to bring jazz-oriented programs to campus.
For more information about VCU Jazz Studies’ community programs, or to suggest future partnerships and initiatives, contact Antonio García, director of VCU Jazz Studies, at ajgarcia@vcu.edu.
