Chezuba talks: Impact stories

Ep-65: Jazz Outreach Initiative: Connecting the Language of Music to the Language of Life

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Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of jazz and explore its influence on American culture. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Donny Thompson, the executive director of Jazz Outreach Initiative (JOI). JOI is a nationally recognized educational nonprofit based in Las Vegas, Nevada, dedicated to connecting young people with the rich and diverse world of jazz. Donny holds a bachelor's degree in music from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a master's degree in nonprofit administration from Louisiana State University. With his passion for education, music, and philanthropy, Donny has been instrumental in supporting jazz programs and initiatives across the Las Vegas Valley.

Highlights of the Conversation:

  • 2:02: Introduction to Donny Thompson and his role as the executive director of JOI.
  • 2:18: The mission of JOI is to connect the language of music to the language of life through educational programs, outreach, and performances.
  • 3:11: The Essential Ellington Regional High School Jazz Band Festival, a non-competitive educational event hosted by JOI, brings together school bands from across the western half of the United States to learn from each other and world-class artists.
  • 5:12: Collaborations with organizations such as the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the College of Southern Nevada, and the Nevada School of the Arts to create a culture of jazz and community in Las Vegas.
  • 6:06: Ensuring program accessibility for diverse communities, including the Las Vegas Youth Jazz Arch and Brass Quintet programs that reach students from different backgrounds and underserved communities.
  • 9:09: How the COVID-19 pandemic affected JOI's operations and the organization's efforts to adapt and expand its programs during that time.
  • 10:11: Introduction to the Jazz Roots program, which provides instruments and free lessons to individual children who may not have the means to pursue music education.
  • 11:22: Advice for young people interested in pursuing a career in jazz and how to get involved with JOI's programs.
  • 13:04: The life skills fostered through jazz, such as collaboration, tolerance, patience, and the ability to work with others.

    • Remember to visit jazzoutreachinitiative.org to learn more about JOI and their upcoming events and classes.


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    Chezuba talks: Impact storiesBy Chezuba