Hancock Institute of Jazz

Remembering Advisor Board Member Quincy Jones 1933-2024

Posted on November 4, 2024November 4, 2024 by jazzcorner

Quincy Jones was an integral part of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz and a member of our Advisory Board for over 35 years. He played a vital role in Institute programs including serving as a judge for our international competitions, sharing his knowledge and wisdom with Institute students and speaking at the United Nations for the official launch of International Jazz Day.

His musical life began with jazz and expanded to encompass all genres of music. Q, we are forever grateful for all you have done for the Institute and for music throughout the years. Your voice and influence will continue to inspire and resonate through all the musicians whose lives you touched and beyond.

Dr. Dyas in DownBeat: “Jazz – A Way to Run Your Business, A Way to Lead a Successful Life”

Posted on August 13, 2024August 13, 2024 by Kamil Walji

The following is an excerpt from the article “Jazz: A Way to Run Your Business, a Way to Lead a Successful Life” by Institute Vice President, Education and Curriculum Development Dr. JB Dyas, which appears in the August 2024 issue of DownBeat Magazine.

Dr. JB Dyas (left) presents a Jazz Informance at the U.S. Dept. of Education with trumpeter Sean Jones and the National Peer-to-Peer Jazz Sextet, highlighting the importance of jazz education in our public schools.

As a jazz musician and educator for the past several decades, I’ve come to realize that the jazz paradigm, that is, the tenets jazz musicians follow, makes not only for creative music making, but also for success in all aspects of life. Businesses from local mom and pops to Fortune 500 companies that have adopted the jazz philosophy in their practices and organizational structure have seen substantial increases in company morale, productivity and profits. And husbands, wives, significant others, children and extended family members who have come to live by the jazz mantra have found more peace, love, harmony and happiness in their lives.

The good news is that you don’t need to be a jazz musician, or even an aficionado, to reap the rewards that living a life guided by the jazz paradigm brings. You just need to know a little bit about what jazz is, how it works, and what jazz musicians do when creating this music that moves the soul (and feet!). In a nutshell, jazz is freedom within a framework. Here’s how it works.

Think of jazz like any other language – English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Japanese or dozens of others spoken around the world. Just like a spoken language, jazz communicates thoughts and feelings. But rather than use words to convey how they’re feeling, jazz musicians use music to do the same. Just as in regular spoken conversation in which the conversers are saying what they’re thinking and feeling in real time depending on what others in the conversation are saying, jazz musicians are playing what they’re thinking and feeling in real time depending on what their bandmates are playing. That’s right – the overwhelming majority of what you hear in a jazz performance is improvised in the moment. That is, it is not composed ahead of time – just like regular conversation is not a prepared speech. Improvisation is an essential element of jazz.

Because there’s no need for spoken words, jazz is widely considered the universal language. Jazz musicians of all ethnicities, religions, backgrounds, cultures, races, personalities, socio-economic groups, ages and genders – irrespective of their particular spoken languages – can “speak” it. It’s not unusual to see a jazz ensemble comprising musicians of multiple generations from multiple countries, races and cultures all coming together for one common purpose: to make great music. If you can swing, regardless of anything else, we want you in the band!

With the exception of avant garde or free jazz, most jazz tunes are accompanied by a set of chords that provides support beneath the melody. This chord progression becomes the framework – called a “chorus” in jazz lingo – within which the jazz musicians improvise their own melodies spontaneously. A “chorus” is one time through a song’s entire chord progression. When jazz musicians perform a song, they play numerous choruses. The reason it doesn’t get boring – even though it’s the same chord progression played over and over – is because something new and different happens during each subsequent chorus. The audience doesn’t know what’s coming next for the very reason that the musicians themselves don’t know what’s coming next! It all materializes spontaneously and organically. The musicians and the audience are on a shared pathway of discovery. And if the musicians have done their homework, that is, know how to play their instruments, are creative and adhere to the jazz paradigm, it’s a beautiful thing, uplifting all those within earshot.

So, just what is the jazz paradigm? What are its tenets, and how do they translate into leadership, behavior and organizational structures that drive success for all who apply them? First and foremost…

Read the full article in DownBeat Magazine.

Institute’s Peer-to-Peer Sextet presents Jazz Education Tour to Rhode Island Public Schools, May 20-24

Posted on May 9, 2024May 13, 2024 by Kamil Walji

Featuring Internationally Renowned Recording Artists DON BRADEN and LISA HENRY

Washington, DC – With lead funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and United Airlines, the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz will bring its Peer-to-Peer jazz education program to Rhode Island public schools May 20-24, 2024. Combining performance with educational information, these “informances” will be presented by the Institute’s National Peer-to-Peer Jazz Sextet, comprising six of the country’s most gifted high school music students. They will be featured alongside internationally acclaimed saxophone recording artist Don Braden, Kansas City jazz and blues vocalist and a former winner of the Institute’s International Jazz Vocals Competition Lisa Henry, and renowned jazz educator Dr. JB Dyas. Each school visit will include an assembly program featuring a musical performance for all students, followed by workshops for each school’s jazz band and choir with the visiting student performers playing alongside and sharing ideas with their Rhode Island counterparts.

“We’ve found that sometimes young people can learn about certain things better from kids their same age, and one of them is jazz,” said jazz great Herbie Hancock, Institute Chairman, NEA Jazz Master, and Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). “And when you hear how accomplished these musicians are at such a young age, you know their peers are going to listen.”

Besides playing jazz at a level that belies their years, the students will talk with their Rhode Island peers about what jazz is, why it’s important to America, and how a jazz ensemble represents a perfect democracy. They also will discuss the important American values that jazz represents: teamwork, unity with ethnic diversity, the correlation of hard work and goal accomplishment, perseverance, and the importance of finding a passion early in life, being persistent, and believing in yourself. When young people hear this important message from kids their same age, they are often more likely to listen.

The members of the all-star sextet selected nationwide to participate in the Rhode Island tour include trumpeter Lucas Rivero (17) from Miami; trombonist Bishesh Paudel (18) from Houston; guitarist Nigel Valle (17) from New Orleans, pianist Nathan Tatsuta (17) from Santa Ana, CA; bassist Læsio Littlejohn (17) from Dallas; and drummer Julian Frazier (18) from Baltimore. “This will actually be my second tour with Mr. Braden,” said Frazier, who toured with him last year for the Institute’s peer-to-peer tour in Arkansas, one of 44 states benefiting from this program since 2005. “That tour really inspired me to get serious and focused.”

Immediately following the informances, Braden, Henry, and Dyas will conduct jazz workshops for each host school’s jazz band and choir. The visiting students will play side-by-side with their Rhode Island counterparts, providing tutelage peer to peer. In so doing, they will teach and learn from one another not unlike what Herbie Hancock did with Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, and so many other eminent jazz artists over half a century. They’ll also learn about each other’s cities and cultures.

“I’m really looking forward to going to Rhode Island, home of the iconic Newport Jazz Festival,” added Paudel. “So many of my jazz heroes have performed there.”

ABOUT THE ARTISTS & EDUCATORS

Don Braden is one of the top tenor saxophonists and jazz flutists on the scene today. Appearing on more than 100 albums, including 20 as leader, Braden has recorded and performed around the globe with such eminent jazz artists as Randy Brecker, Betty Carter, Gerald Clayton, Herbie Hancock, Tom Harrell, Roy Haynes, Freddie Hubbard, Dave Liebman, Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, Terell Stafford, Dave Stryker, Jeff “Tain” Watts and Tony Williams. He is also a prolific and versatile composer, writing for ensembles ranging from duo to full symphonic orchestra in all styles of jazz, pop and world music for recordings, film and television. Besides being an internationally acclaimed performer and composer, Braden is a renowned jazz educator and has served on the faculties of Harvard, Montclair State and William Paterson universities. Formerly the artistic director of New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Jazz for Teens program, Braden currently serves as music director for the Litchfield Jazz Camp and presents workshops and master classes around the world. His latest recording, Earth, Wind, and Wonder – Volume 2 – comprising his jazz arrangements of Earth, Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder tunes – has received critical acclaim. www.donbraden.com

Lisa Henry is a dynamic vocalist with a combination of swingin’ cool and down home class. A Kansas City native, she began by singing gospel music in the Baptist church, and by age 12 was singing the music of Billie Holiday and Miles Davis. Henry was a winner of the Herbie Hancock Institute’s International Jazz Vocals Competition and was later named an International Jazz Ambassador to Africa. She toured Chile, Argentina, and Peru with the Institute in the 1990s, performing for 34 Heads of State at the Summit of the Americas. In 2006 she participated in a U.S. State Department-sponsored tour of India and performed for an esteemed presidential dinner at the White House, celebrating the Institute’s 20th Anniversary. Over the past 25 years, Henry has toured the globe, sharing the stage with such artists as Ambrose Akinmusire, Kenny Barron, Don Braden, Bobby Broom, Gerald Clayton, Robin Eubanks, Kenny Garrett, Herbie Hancock, Roy Hargrove, Antonio Hart, Ingrid Jensen, Sean Jones, Kevin Mahogany, Delfeayo Marsalis, Wayne Shorter, Terell Stafford, Bobby Watson and Steve Wilson. Her Live from 18th and Vine recording has been lauded by jazz fans and critics alike. www.lisahenryjazz.com

Dr. JB Dyas has been a leader in jazz education for the past two decades. Formerly the Executive Director of the Brubeck Institute, Dyas currently serves as Vice President for Education and Curriculum Development at the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. He oversees the Institute’s education and outreach programs including Jazz In America: The National Jazz Curriculum (www.jazzinamerica.org), one of the most significant and wide-reaching jazz education programs in the world. Throughout his career, he has performed across the country, taught students at every level, directed large and small ensembles, and developed and implemented new jazz curricula. He has written for DownBeat magazine and other national music publications, presented numerous jazz workshops, teacher-training seminars and jazz “informances” around the globe with such renowned artists as Dave Brubeck and Herbie Hancock, and created a series of teacher-training jazz education videos. Dr. Dyas received his master’s degree in Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Miami and PhD in Music Education from Indiana University, and is a recipient of the DownBeat Achievement Award for Jazz Education.

ABOUT THE HERBIE HANCOCK INSTITUTE OF JAZZ

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz is a nonprofit education organization with a mission to offer the world’s most promising young musicians college level training by internationally acclaimed jazz masters and to present public school music education programs for young people around the world. The Institute preserves, perpetuates and expands jazz as a global art form, and utilizes jazz as a means to unite people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities. All of the Institute’s programs are provided free of charge to students, schools and communities worldwide. The Institute’s programs use jazz as the medium to encourage imaginative thinking, creativity, a positive self-image, and respect for one’s own and others’ cultural heritage. Jazz great Herbie Hancock serves as the Institute’s chairman. www.hancockinstitute.org.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL PERFORMING ARTS HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ PROGRAM

The Herbie Hancock Institute’s National Performing Arts High School Jazz Program facilitates the education of gifted music students who attend public performing arts high schools across the nation. The Program offers them opportunities to participate in pre-conservatory, highly specialized, performance-based jazz curricula; study with some of the world’s most eminent jazz artists and educators; perform in jazz ensembles comprising their peers; and prepare for entry into the country’s most distinguished conservatories and university schools of music. Included is instruction in Jazz Improvisation, Theory, Composition, History, and Styles and Analysis. The Institute works with each school in developing jazz curricula and instructional methodology; provides ongoing private and group instruction with Institute teaching staff, visiting artists and educators; offers special residences with jazz masters; arranges high-profile performance opportunities for the student ensembles; and assists graduating seniors with securing college scholarships.

ABOUT THE PEER-TO-PEER JAZZ EDUCATION INITIATIVE

Through the Herbie Hancock Institute’s National Peer-to-Peer Jazz Education Initiative, which receives lead funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and United Airlines, outstanding music students from public performing arts high schools across the nation are invited to participate in weeklong peer-to-peer jazz informance tours. The young musicians gain invaluable performance experience playing alongside internationally acclaimed artists while they, in turn, help educate young audiences in public schools throughout the U.S. about jazz, America’s indigenous musical art form. In so doing, they not only help develop jazz audiences for the future, but also exemplify the deeply held American values that jazz represents: teamwork, unity with ethnic diversity, democracy, persistence and perseverance, and the vital importance of really listening to one another.

* Media Day/VIP Concerts

Warwick – Tuesday, May 21 • 10:00 am – Pilgrim High School, 11 Pilgrim Pkwy, Warwick, RI 02888

With opening remarks by special guests: Frank Picozzi, Mayor, City of Warwick • Lynn Dambruch, Superintendent, Warwick Public Schools

Newport – Wednesday, May 22 • 9:15 am – Rogers High School, 15 Wickham Rd, Newport, RI 02840

With opening remarks by special guests: Xay Khamsyvoravong, Mayor, City of Newport • Dr. Colleen Jermain, Superintendent, Newport Public Schools

Providence – Friday, May 24 • 1:00 pm – Hope High School, 324 Hope St, Providence, RI 02906

With opening remarks by special guests: Brett Smiley, Mayor, City of Providence • Angélica Infante-Green, Commissioner, Rhode Island Department of Education • Dr. Javier Montañez, Superintendent, Providence Public Schools

For more information, full-length bios and photos, or to schedule an interview with the artists and/or students, please contact: JB Dyas at jbdyas@hancockinstitute.org or 323-270-3904.

Institute’s Peer-to-Peer Sextet presents Jazz Education Tour to Wyoming Public Schools, May 13-17

Posted on May 7, 2024May 13, 2024 by Kamil Walji

DOWNLOAD THE PRESS RELEASE HERE.

Featuring Internationally Renowned Recording Artists TERELL STAFFORD and LISA HENRY

Weeklong series of events includes a free performance open to the public at Surbrugg/Prentice Auditorium at Laramie County Community College on May 16

Washington, DC – With lead funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and United Airlines, the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz will bring its Peer-to-Peer jazz education program to Albany and Laramie County public schools May 13-17, 2024. Combining performance with educational information, these “informances” will be presented by the Institute’s National Peer-to-Peer Jazz Quintet, comprising five of the country’s most gifted high school music students. They will be featured alongside internationally acclaimed trumpet recording artist Terell Stafford, Kansas City jazz and blues vocalist and a former winner of the Institute’s International Jazz Vocals Competition Lisa Henry, and renowned jazz educator Dr. JB Dyas. Each school visit will include an assembly program featuring a musical performance for all students, followed by workshops for each school’s jazz band and choir with the visiting student performers playing alongside and sharing ideas with their Wyoming counterparts.

Besides playing jazz at a level that belies their years, the students will talk with their Wyoming peers about what jazz is, why it’s important to America, and how a jazz ensemble represents a perfect democracy. They also will discuss the important American values that jazz represents: teamwork, unity with ethnic diversity, the correlation of hard work and goal accomplishment, perseverance, and the importance of finding a passion early in life, being persistent, and believing in yourself. When young people hear this important message from kids their same age, they are often more likely to listen.

The members of the high school all-star quintet selected nationwide to participate in the Wyoming tour include saxophonist Quinn Rehkemper from Baltimore; vibraphonist Wanye Williams from Chicago; pianist Taylor Lee from Los Angeles; bassist Mia Desalos from Houston; and drummer Enzo Pulley from Miami. “I had the opportunity to perform with Mr. Stafford last year at the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, DC, where we presented a jazz informance with Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona to highlight the importance of music education in our public schools,” said Rehkemper. “And now actually getting to tour with Mr. Stafford is a dream come true.”

Immediately following the informances, Stafford, Henry, and Dyas will conduct jazz workshops for each host school’s jazz band and choir. The visiting students will play side-by-side with their Wyoming counterparts, providing tutelage peer to peer. In so doing, they will teach and learn from one another not unlike what Herbie Hancock did with Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, and so many other eminent jazz artists for over half a century. They’ll also learn about each other’s cities and cultures.

“I’m really looking forward to going to Wyoming,” added Taylor Lee, the student from Los Angeles. “Wide open spaces, clean air, no traffic – I might just stay!”

The weeklong tour will include a free concert open to the public on May 16 at 7:00 pm at Laramie County Community College’s Surbrugg/Prentice Auditorium (1400 E College Dr) where Cheyenne residents and visitors are invited to enjoy an evening of music with Stafford and Henry alongside jazz’s future “young lions.” The septet will perform standards, jazz classics and contemporary jazz, including tunes from Stafford’s and Henry’s latest recordings. For further information, call 307-778-1120.

About The Artists & Educators

Terell Stafford is one of the top jazz trumpeters on the scene today. Born in Miami and raised in Chicago and Silver Spring, Maryland, Stafford attended the University of Maryland and Rutgers University, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, respectively. While at Rutgers, he was invited to join Bobby Watson’s group, Horizon, with whom he performed and recorded for five years. He has since gone on to appear on more than 140 albums and perform around the globe with such eminent jazz artists as Kenny Barron, Benny Golson, Antonio Hart, Jimmy Heath, Diana Krall, Branford Marsalis, Mulgrew Miller, Billy Taylor, McCoy Tyner, Cedar Walton, Tim Warfield, and Frank Wess. Stafford is currently a member of the iconic Grammy Award-winning Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and the Grammy-nominated Clayton Brothers Quintet, in addition to his own quintet. He has recorded ten albums as leader, including his critically acclaimed latest release, Between Two Worlds (Le Coq Records, 2023). He also serves as artistic director of the Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia. Besides being an internationally acclaimed performer and prolific composer, Stafford is a renowned educator and enjoys working with up-and-coming young jazz artists. He currently serves as director of jazz studies and chair of instrumental studies at Temple University in Philadelphia. www.terellstafford.com

About the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz is a nonprofit education organization with a mission to offer the world’s most promising young musicians college level training by internationally acclaimed jazz masters and to present public school music education programs for young people around the world. The Institute preserves, perpetuates and expands jazz as a global art form, and utilizes jazz as a means to unite people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities. All of the Institute’s programs are provided free of charge to students, schools and communities worldwide. The Institute’s programs use jazz as the medium to encourage imaginative thinking, creativity, a positive self-image, and respect for one’s own and others’ cultural heritage. Jazz great Herbie Hancock serves as the Institute’s Chairman. www.hancockinstitute.org.

About the National Performing Arts High School Jazz Program

About the Peer-to-Peer Jazz Education Initiative

* Media Day/VIP Concerts

Laramie – Tuesday, May 14 • 11:55 am – Laramie High School, 1710 Boulder Dr, Laramie, WY 82070

With special guests Mayor Patrick Harrington, City of Laramie; Vice Mayor Sharon Cumbie, City of Laramie; Superintendent John Goldhardt, Albany County School District

Cheyenne – Friday, May 17 • 10:15 am – East High School, 2800 E Pershing Blvd, Cheyenne, WY 82001

With special guests Governor Mark Gordon, State of Wyoming; Mayor Patrick Collins, City of Cheyenne; Chief of Staff Dicky Shanor, Wyoming Department of Education; Cheyenne Field Representative Karmen Rossi, Office of U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis; Superintendent Stephen Newton, Laramie County School District

For more information, full-length bios and photos, or to schedule an interview with the artists and/or students, please contact: JB Dyas at jbdyas@hancockinstitute.org or 323-270-3904.

International Jazz Day 2024 Worldwide Celebration Concludes with All-Star Global Concert from Tangier, Morocco

Posted on May 1, 2024May 13, 2024 by Kamil Walji

Thousands of Performances and Events Presented in More Than 190 Countries, All Continents

Tangier, April 30 — The 13th annual International Jazz Day came to a thrilling conclusion with an historic All-Star Global Concert from the new Palace of Arts and Culture of Tangier. Hosted by internationally acclaimed actor Jeremy Irons, the concert featured world-renowned artists including master Gnawa musician Abdellah El Gourd (Morocco) and jazz icon Herbie Hancock along with Claudia Acuña (Chile), Ambrose Akinmusire (USA), John Beasley (USA), Lakecia Benjamin (USA), Richard Bona (Cameroon), Dee Dee Bridgewater (USA), Moreira Chonguiça (Mozambique), Shemekia Copeland (USA), Kurt Elling (USA), Antonio Faraò (Italy), Melody Gardot (USA), Jazzmeia Horn (USA), JK Kim (Republic of Korea), Femi Kuti (Nigeria), Magnus Lindgren (Sweden), Romero Lubambo (Brazil), Marcus Miller (USA), Yasushi Nakamura (Japan), Tarek Yamani (Lebanon) and many others.

The All-Star Global Concert opened with a special “Welcome to Country” performance by renowned Dar Gnawa musicians, followed by Dee Dee Bridgewater’s spectacular performance of Chick Corea’s “Spain,” highlighting the cultural connections between Morocco and Spain. Jazzmeia Horn enlisted the talents of Ambrose Akinmusire and Billy Childs in the swinging “Free Your Mind.” Richard Bona gave a tender performance of his song “Esoka Bulu (Night Whisper).” TK Blue and Gnawa icon Abdellah El Gourd paid homage to Morocco’s Gnawa music and American jazz, performing Randy Weston’s composition, “Blue Moses.” Melody Gardot and Philippe Powell delivered a sublime rendition of “This Foolish Heart Could Love You.” Femi Kuti declared there is “One People, One World” on his electrifying Afro-Beat performance. Kurt Elling paid tribute to Wayne Shorter by performing Shorter’s composition, “Speak No Evil.” Shemekia Copeland and Joe Louis Walker brought the blues front and center with “Nobody But You.”

The International Jazz Day 2024 celebration included thousands of performances, master classes, jam sessions, education programs and community service and outreach initiatives in more than 190 countries, culminating in the Global Concert, which is available free-of-charge at jazzday.com.

Major support for International Jazz Day 2024 is provided by the Doris Duke Foundation, with additional, generous support from GRoW @ Annenberg. United, the International Jazz Day Global Airline Partner, provided air transportation and additional support for artists and educators.

Each year on April 30, International Jazz Day brings together countries and communities worldwide promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity and respect for human dignity. International Jazz Day was adopted by the UNESCO Member Nations on the initiative of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock, who co-chairs the annual celebration with UNESCO Director-GeneralAudrey Azoulay.

Azoulay said, “Jazz, as legendary American singer Nina Simone eloquently put it, is more than just music. It transcends musical notes; it is ‘a way of life…a way of being, a way of thinking.’”

Hancock added, “As we celebrate Jazz Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the enduring legacy of jazz and its ability to uplift, inspire and unite us all.”

Sean Jones and Institute’s Peer-to-Peer Jazz Quintet return to the U.S. Department of Education for April 10th Jazz Informance

Posted on March 25, 2024May 13, 2024 by Kamil Walji

Download the press release here.

WITH REMARKS BY U.S. DEPUTY SECRETARY OF EDUCATION CINDY MARTEN AND FEATURING INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED JAZZ TRUMPET RECORDING ARTIST SEAN JONES ON APRIL 10, 2024 AT 1:00 PM ET

Washington, DC – The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Education will present a peer-to-peer jazz informance on April 10, featuring the Institute’s Peer-to-Peer Jazz Quintet. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) with remarks by U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten, the “informance” – a combination of performance and educational information – will be presented by gifted music students from Baltimore, New York, and Washington, DC public high schools. They will be accompanied by internationally acclaimed jazz trumpet recording artist Sean Jones and renowned jazz educator Dr. JB Dyas. The informance will be held at the Potomac Center Plaza in Washington, DC, beginning at 1 PM ET. While the jazz informance at the Potomac Center Plaza can only accommodate a limited, invited audience of selected students, teachers, and principals, it will be streamed nationally and internationally so all may partake. To participate virtually in the free jazz informance, all attendees must register prior to the event at https://ed-gov.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_miUhfNmuQPe0Aci7OPkAow to obtain a meeting number and passcode. Registration is open now.

Besides playing jazz at a level that belies their years, the students will talk to their like-age audience across the country and around the world not only about jazz – America’s indigenous musical art form – and its significance in American history and culture, but also about the importance of finding a passion for something early in life, working hard at it, being persistent, and believing in yourself. When young people hear this important message from kids their same age, they are often more likely to listen.

“We’ve found that young people often learn about certain things better from kids their same age, and one of those is jazz,” said Herbie Hancock, Chairman of the Institute, NEA Jazz Master, and Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). “And when you hear how accomplished these musicians are at such a young age, you know their peers are going to listen.”

The members of the Quintet include alto saxophonist Quinn Rehkemper and drummer Julian Frazier from the Baltimore School for the Arts (BSA); tenor saxophonist Ben Sherman from the LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York, and pianist Jose Andre Montano from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, DC. Rounding out the quintet will be BSA’s director of jazz studies, Ed Hrybyk on bass. Besides performing, the students will talk to their peers around the world about what jazz is, how it works, and how jazz represents a perfect democracy – individual freedom but with responsibility to the group.

“This will actually be my third time performing at the U.S. Department of Education, and it’s truly been an honor each time,” said Rehkemper. “We not only have the opportunity to teach our peers about jazz but, more importantly, the values jazz represents.”

“The jazz paradigm, that is, the tenets that jazz musicians follow, not only makes for creative music making, it is a superlative way to run your business and lead your life,” added Dyas. “Businesses from local mom and pops to Fortune 500 companies that have adopted the jazz philosophy of actively listening to, collaborating with, and truly respecting one another in their practices and organizational structures have seen substantial increases in company morale, productivity and profits. And husbands, wives, significant others, children and extended family members who have come to live by the jazz mantra have found more peace, love, harmony and happiness in their lives.”

“At the Department, we talk a lot about raising the bar in education. Jazz is all about raising the bar in music. Improvisation teaches students not only how to think on their feet, but also how to communicate harmoniously with one another without hesitation,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in remarks at last year’s informance.

The Herbie Hancock Institute’s National Peer-to-Peer Education Program has lead funding from the National Endowment of the Arts and United Airlines.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS & EDUCATORS

Cindy Marten was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Deputy Secretary of Education on May 11, 2021. She has spent 32 years as an educator, holding various roles of increasing responsibility as a teacher, literacy specialist, vice principal, principal and superintendent, most recently at the San Diego Unified School District. She is the author of “Word Crafting: Teaching Spelling, Grades K-6,” which places an emphasis on literacy as a key to students’ success. In addition to her emphasis on academics, Marten has been a champion for health and wellness. Under her leadership, San Diego Unified received Gold Recognition in the American Heart Association’s Workplace Health Achievement Index for efforts to support employee wellness, and multiple San Diego Unified schools received “America’s Healthiest Schools” award from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. As an educator at every level, Marten has displayed her commitment to educating the whole child through an emphasis on social and emotional learning, the arts, and academic rigor.

Sean Jones is one of the top jazz trumpeters and composers on the scene today. He appears on more than 50 albums and has performed all over the world with such eminent jazz artists as Robin Eubanks, Tia Fuller, Herbie Hancock, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Joe Lovano, Marcus Miller, Dianne Reeves, David Sánchez, SFJAZZ Collective, Wayne Shorter, Warren Wolf, Nancy Wilson and Miguel Zenon. He has eight recordings as a leader and is regularly cited in DownBeat magazine’s annual Critics and Readers’ Polls as one of the top trumpet players of his generation. Besides being an internationally acclaimed performer and composer, Jones is a dedicated jazz educator who enjoys working with up-and-coming young artists. Former Chair of the Brass Department at the Berklee College of Music and President of the Jazz Education Network (JEN), Jones currently serves as Chair of Jazz Studies at the world-renowned Peabody Conservatory of Music and Artistic Director of Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra. His latest recording, Live from Jazz at the Bistro (Mack Avenue Records), has received critical acclaim. www.sean-jones.com

Dr. JB Dyas has been a leader in jazz education for the past two decades. Formerly the Executive Director of the Brubeck Institute, Dyas currently serves as Vice President for Education and Curriculum Development at the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. He oversees the Institute’s education and outreach programs including Jazz In America: The National Jazz Curriculum (www.jazzinamerica.org), one of the most significant and wide-reaching jazz education programs in the world. Throughout his career, he has performed across the country, taught students at every level, directed large and small ensembles, and developed and implemented new jazz curricula. He has written for DownBeat magazine and other national music publications, presented numerous jazz workshops, teacher-training seminars, and jazz “informances” around the globe with such renowned artists as Dave Brubeck and Herbie Hancock, and has made a series of teacher-training jazz education videos. Dr. Dyas received his master’s degree in Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Miami and PhD in Music Education from Indiana University, and is a recipient of the DownBeat Achievement Award for Jazz Education.

ABOUT THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

The United States Department of Education is a Cabinet-level department of the United States government. It began operating on May 4, 1980, having been created after the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare was split into the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services by the Department of Education Organization Act, which President Jimmy Carter signed into law in 1979. With a mission to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access, the primary functions of the U.S. Department of Education are to establish policy for, administer and coordinate most federal assistance to education; collect data on U.S. schools; and enforce federal educational laws regarding privacy and civil rights. The Department is led by the U.S. Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona. www.ed.gov

ABOUT THE HERBIE HANCOCK INSTITUTE OF JAZZ

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz is a nonprofit education organization with a mission to offer the world’s most promising young musicians college level training by internationally acclaimed jazz masters and to present public school music education programs for young people around the world. The Institute preserves, perpetuates and expands jazz as a global art form, and utilizes jazz as a means to unite people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities. All of the Institute’s programs are provided free of charge to students, schools and communities worldwide. The Institute’s programs use jazz as the medium to encourage imaginative thinking, creativity, a positive self-image, and respect for one’s own and others’ cultural heritage. Founded in 1986 as the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, the organization began operating as the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz in 2019 in recognition of Mr. Hancock’s commitment to the Institute since its establishment, his expert guidance as Institute Chairman, and his immense contributions to and impact on music, education and humanity. www.hancockinstitute.org

ABAOUT THE NATIONAL PERFORMING ARTS HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ PROGRAM

The Herbie Hancock Institute’s National Performing Arts High School Jazz Program facilitates the education of gifted music students who attend public performing arts high schools across the nation. The Program offers them opportunities to participate in pre- conservatory, highly specialized, performance-based jazz curricula; study with some of the world’s most eminent jazz artists and educators; perform in jazz ensembles comprising their peers; and prepare for entry into the country’s most distinguished conservatories and university schools of music. Included is instruction in Jazz Improvisation, Theory, Composition, History, and Styles and Analysis. The Institute works with each school in developing jazz curricula and instructional methodology; provides ongoing private and group instruction with Institute teaching staff, visiting artists and educators; offers special residences with jazz masters; arranges high-profile performance opportunities for the student ensembles; and assists graduating seniors with securing college scholarships.

ABOUT THE PEER-TO-PEER JAZZ EDUCATION INITIATIVE

Through the Herbie Hancock Institute’s National Peer-to-Peer Jazz Education Initiative, which receives lead funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, outstanding music students from public performing arts high schools across the nation are invited to participate in weeklong peer-to-peer jazz informance tours. The young musicians gain invaluable performance experience playing alongside internationally acclaimed artists while they, in turn, help educate young audiences in public schools throughout the U.S. about jazz, America’s indigenous musical art form. In so doing, they not only help develop jazz audiences for the future, but also exemplify the deeply held American values that jazz represents: teamwork, unity with ethnic diversity, democracy, persistence, and the vital importance of really listening to one another.

ABOUT JAZZ APPRECIATION MONTH

Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM) was created by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History in 2002 to herald the extraordinary heritage and history of jazz for the entire month of April. JAM is intended to stimulate and encourage people of all ages to participate in jazz – to study the music, attend concerts, listen to jazz on radio and recordings, read books about jazz, and more. The month-long jazz celebration culminates with International Jazz Day on April 30th.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL JAZZ DAY

In November 2011, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially designated April 30th as International Jazz Day in order to highlight jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe. Every year, people all over the world join forces on April 30th to celebrate jazz as a universal tool for promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human dignity; eradicating discrimination; fostering gender equality; and promoting individual expression. Recognized on the official calendars of both the United Nations and UNESCO, International Jazz Day has become a global movement, annually reaching more than two billion people in over 190 countries on all seven continents through education programs, performances, community outreach and media coverage. International Jazz Day is chaired and led by UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay and legendary jazz pianist and composer Herbie Hancock, who serves as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador and Chairman of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. April 30, 2024 will mark International Jazz Day’s 13th Anniversary, celebrated with thousands of concerts, jazz workshops, masterclasses, lectures, listening parties, and jam sessions around the world. www.jazzday.com

Tangier selected as the 2024 Global Host City of International Jazz Day

Posted on March 19, 2024May 13, 2024 by Kamil Walji

Worldwide Celebration on April 30

Paris and Washington, DC, March 19, 2024 – The 2024 edition of International Jazz Day will be celebrated in more than 190 countries on April 30. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock are pleased to announce that the city of Tangier, Morocco will serve as the Global Host and will anchor the International Jazz Day programs around the world.

“The designation of Tangier marks the first time a city on the African continent will host International Jazz Day, the world’s largest and most significant celebration of jazz,” said Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.

Presented in partnership with the Ministry of Culture of Morocco and the City of Tangier, the four-day celebration (April 27-30) will emphasize the city’s jazz heritage and highlight cultural and artistic ties between people in Morocco, Europe and Africa. A series of education programs will include events for students of all ages, a special presentation showcasing the significance of Morocco’s Gnawa music and its connection with jazz, and conversations about the history of jazz and its impact on Tangier, among others. A culminating All-Star Global Concert at the beautiful, new Palace of Arts and Culture of Tangier – an architectural masterpiece – will be broadcast via YouTube, Facebook, JazzDay.com, the United Nations and UNESCO to millions of viewers worldwide.

Music enthusiasts can look forward to legendary figures of jazz, blues and beyond electrifying the city of Tangier – and screens throughout the world. Led by iconic pianist Herbie Hancock and Musical Director John Beasley (USA), the All-Star Global Concert will feature performances by an international roster of artists from all corners of the globe, including master Gnawa musician Abdellah El Gourd (Morocco). Other confirmed artists include: Claudia Acuña (Chile), Ambrose Akinmusire (USA), Lakecia Benjamin (USA), Richard Bona (Cameroon), Dee Dee Bridgewater (USA), Moreira Chonguiça (Mozambique), Shemekia Copeland (USA), Kurt Elling (USA), Antonio Faraò (Italy), Melody Gardot (USA), Jazzmeia Horn (USA), JK Kim (Republic of Korea), Magnus Lindgren (Sweden), Romero Lubambo (Brazil), Marcus Miller (USA), Yasushi Nakamura (Japan), Tarek Yamani (Lebanon), and many more to be announced.

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, Tangier is known as a melting pot of cultural expressions. Tangier boasts a long, rich history of jazz. Among the world-renowned jazz artists who performed and spent time in Tangier were Josephine Baker, Ornette Coleman, Herbie Mann and Archie Shepp. For many years, jazz master Randy Weston lived in Tangier, where he collaborated with Gnawa master Abdellah El Gourd to explore the roots of jazz and African music.

Gnawa-jazz, a fusion of Morocco’s traditional musical style and jazz, is appreciated across Morocco and far beyond. In the 1970s, Weston founded the African Jazz Festival, which became the inspiration for multiple jazz festivals throughout Morocco, including Tanjazz and Jazzablanca.

In addition to the Global Concert, UNESCO encourages schools, universities and non-governmental organizations around the world to celebrate International Jazz Day. Performing arts venues, community centers, town squares, parks, libraries, museums, restaurants, clubs and festivals organize thousands of activities, while public radio and television feature jazz on and around International Jazz Day.

Established by the General Conference of UNESCO in 2011 and recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, International Jazz Day brings together countries and communities worldwide every April 30. The annual International Jazz Day celebration highlights the power of jazz and its role in promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity and respect for human dignity.

International Jazz Day has become a global movement reaching more than 2 billion people annually on all continents through education programs, performances, community outreach, radio, television and streaming, along with electronic, print and social media. The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz is the lead nonprofit organization charged with planning, promoting and producing International Jazz Day each year.

To learn more about International Jazz Day and register events on the official website, visit www.jazzday.com or www.unesco.org/en/international-jazz-day.

About UNESCO
With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2,300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2,000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13,000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay. More information: www.unesco.org

Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz
The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz preserves, perpetuates and expands jazz as a global art form, and utilizes jazz as a means to unite people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities. The Institute is a nonprofit education organization with a mission to offer the world’s most promising young musicians college level training by internationally acclaimed jazz masters and to present public school music education programs for young people around the world. More information: www.hancockinstitute.org

*MEDIA CONTACTS*	Alisse KINGSLEY + 1 323 467 8508 press@jazzday.com	Polina HUARD +33 (0)145 68 10 17 p.huard@unesco.org

Jazz Legends Herbie Hancock and Dianne Reeves Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day with Concerts and Master Classes in New Delhi and Mumbai

Posted on January 20, 2024July 8, 2024 by Kamil Walji

Herbie Hancock and Dianne Reeves, iconic figures in the world of jazz, accompanied by the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA Ensemble, are currently visiting New Delhi and Mumbai from January 14-25, 2024 as part of the US Department of State’s Global Music Diplomacy Initiative. Their performances and master classes with students are dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The highlight of their visit was a special concert in New Delhi on January 15, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed annually on the third Monday of January in the United States, pays tribute to the life and achievements of the renowned civil rights leader. Dr. King’s leading role in the American civil rights movement, advocating for racial equality, justice, and unity, is a poignant reminder on this federal holiday.

Herbie Hancock and Dianne Reeves perform at The Piano Man Jazz Club at Eldeco Centre in New Delhi, India on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, alongside guitarist Leonard Brown and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA Ensemble. Photo by Steve Mundinger for Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz.

Dr. King Jr.’s journey was profoundly influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of nonviolent resistance, developed during India’s struggle for independence. This influence played a pivotal role in shaping the strategies and character of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Dr. King’s pilgrimage to India in 1959 further solidified his appreciation for nonviolent resistance and its potential to effect social change. The connection between Martin Luther King Jr. and India extends beyond a shared commitment to nonviolence; it embodies a recognition of the global nature of movements for justice and human rights. Their philosophies underscore the interconnectedness of struggles against oppression worldwide.

Highlighting the importance of the day, Eric Garcetti, U.S. Ambassador to India, said, “On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, let’s honor the enduring impact of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles, which continue to inspire the pursuit of justice and equality. Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, advocating profound respect for the inherent dignity of every individual, regardless of background, caste, religion, or social status, echoes the core values championed by Martin Luther King Jr. Their shared example underscores the belief that everyone deserves respect and fair treatment in our ongoing journey toward a more just and equitable society. As a lifelong fan of Herbie Hancock and Dianne Reeves, I’m excited for them to highlight the global relevance of the unity Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. King sought, motivating us in our collective pursuit of a world founded on justice, equality, and respect for all.”

Eric Garcetti, U.S. Ambassador to India, plays the piano at The Piano Man Jazz Club in New Delhi with Destiny Diggs, bass, and Sasha Ripley, tenor saxophone, who are both members of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA Ensemble. Photo by Steve Mundinger for Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz.

Herbie Hancock noted, “It was a privilege to travel to India 15 years ago to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s historic visit. I’m pleased to return to India for the fourth time to perform for audiences and work with young, aspiring musicians. Jazz is a true representation of the ideals Dr. King stood for – freedom, democracy and equality. It’s an honor to share these ideals and reconnect with the wonderful people and musicians of India.”

Herbie Hancock, Dianne Reeves, and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA Ensemble are participating in education programs and performing in New Delhi and Mumbai to further foster the bonds between musicians and the peoples of the United States and India.

Dianne Reeves sings with students during a master class at New Delhi’s Global Music Institute. Photo by Steve Mundinger for Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz.

This program is made possible in part through the generous support of United Airlines and Boeing.

Jahari Stampley of Chicago, Illinois Wins First Place in 2023 Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition

Posted on October 16, 2023October 23, 2023 by Kamil Walji

Special Tributes to Honorees Dianne Reeves & Frank Gehry with Herbie Hancock, Joe Lovano, Somi, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Ambrose Akinmusire, Terri Lyne Carrington, Lizz Wright, Many More

New York, NY – The 2023 Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition and All-Star Gala Concert came to an exciting conclusion following the announcement of Jahari Stampley, age 24, of Chicago, Illinois as first place winner of the Competition.

Presented by the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, the world’s preeminent jazz education organization, in association with the Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC), the Competition awarded major scholarships and prizes including a $50,000 first place award. World-renowned pianists Bill Charlap, Orrin Evans, Herbie Hancock, Hiromi and Danilo Pérez served as the Competition judges.

The October 15th event at PAC NYC on the historic World Trade Center campus featured a star-studded Gala Concert. The Institute presented its Maria Fisher Founder’s Award to five-time GRAMMY-winning jazz vocalist and educator Dianne Reeves, who has played a vital role in the Institute’s mission for nearly three decades. Visionary architect Frank Gehry was honored with the Institute’s Herbie Hancock Humanitarian Award for his commitment to arts education, notably jazz and classical music training for young people. The evening featured stellar performances by a diverse group of all-stars including Musical Director John Beasley, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Lizz Wright, Anat Cohen, Romero Lubambo, Jean Baylor, Joe Lovano, Hélène Mercier, Somi, Ambrose Akinmusire and Ben Williams.

First place winner Jahari Stampley captivated the audience with his performances of “Prelude Entrance” and “After The Morning.” Second place winner Connor Rohrer, Age 23, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania performed “Someplace Called Where” and “Matrix,” and third place winner Paul Cornish, Age 26, of Houston, Texas performed “Intrepid Fox” and “Come Sunday.” They were among the 11 outstanding, young pianists from around the world who competed a day earlier in the Competition Semifinals at PAC NYC. Bassist Richie Goods and drummer Carl Allen accompanied each competitor.

The Gala opened with multi-GRAMMY and Tony Award winner Dee Dee Bridgewater performing Chick Corea’s “Spain” with an all-star ensemble. Later in the evening, the Institute shined a spotlight on some of the top young jazz musicians across the country. The Institute’s National Peer-to-Peer High School All-Star Jazz Sextet performed Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground” alongside vocalist and former Institute Competition winner Lisa Henry. Among the nation’s most accomplished young jazz musicians, these students train with Institute teaching artists at public performing arts high schools nationwide. U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona, who hosts an Institute Peer-to-Peer performance at the Department of Education each year, made remarks about the importance of music education in the schools.

The evening also showcased the Herbie Hancock Institute Ensemble performing Herbie Hancock’s “Actual Proof.” These gifted musicians from around the world receive full scholarships to attend the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance, the Institute’s prestigious master’s degree program at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music in Los Angeles. The students, who represent the next generation of jazz artists, study for two years with world-renowned jazz musicians, composers and educators.

Multi-GRAMMY Award-winning bassist, singer and composer Esperanza Spalding honored Frank Gehry with the Institute’s Herbie Hancock Humanitarian Award. She highlighted his renowned architectural achievements and his devotion to helping others – from volunteering in public schools and supporting the Turnaround Arts initiative for at-risk youth to serving on the Institute’s Board of Trustees and taking an active role in its jazz education programs. Piano virtuoso Hélène Mercier of Paris and piano prodigy A Bu of Beijing performed a stunning rendition of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” fusing jazz and classical influences. Herbie Hancock, Ambrose Akinmusire, Joe Lovano, Ben Williams and Terri Lyne Carrington then performed “Speak No Evil” by the late Wayne Shorter, Gehry’s close friend and creative collaborator.

To honor Dianne Reeves, acclaimed actor Delroy Lindo shared the story of how Reeves found her passion early on through music, as a member of her high school big band. She went on to tour with Sergio Mendes and Harry Belafonte, release a series of chart-topping albums, earn five GRAMMY Awards and make a profound impact on jazz and her millions of fans. The evening’s special guests, including vocalists Somi, Jean Baylor, Michael Mayo and Lizz Wright, paid tribute to Reeves by performing three of her songs: the powerful, percussive “Endangered Species,” the gorgeous ballad “Bridges,” and the gospel-tinged “Today Will Be a Good Day.” After accepting the Maria Fisher Founder’s Award from Institute Chairman Herbie Hancock, Reeves graced the stage with a riveting performance of “You Taught My Heart to Sing.”

Proceeds from the All-Star Gala Concert will support the Institute’s public school education programs in Los Angeles, New York, Washington, DC and many other cities across the nation. All of the Institute’s education programs are provided free of charge, with an emphasis on serving economically disadvantaged public school students and their teachers and parents.

Air transportation was provided by United Airlines, Official Airline of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz.

Helen Sung, Rogelio Beccato, Carl Allen, Anat Cohen, Richie Goods & Dee Dee Bridgewater, “Spain”, HHIJ International Jazz Piano Competition 2023 at The PAC NYC, Sunday, October 15, 2023

Semifinalists Announced for 2023 Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition, October 14-15 in New York City

Posted on October 3, 2023October 5, 2023 by Kamil Walji

Competition Festivities at Perelman Performing Arts Center Include All-Star Gala Concert Honoring Renowned Jazz Vocalist Dianne Reeves and Visionary Architect Frank Gehry

Washington, D.C. — Eleven outstanding young jazz pianists from around the world will compete in the 2023 Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition October 14-15 presented in association with the Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) on the historic World Trade Center campus.

The semifinalists are: Alan Bartuš of Lučenec, Slovakia; Joe Block of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Caelan Cardello of Teaneck, New Jersey; Esteban Castro of Hackensack, New Jersey; Paul Cornish of Houston, Texas; Brandon Goldberg of Miami, Florida; Connor Rohrer of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania; Dabin Ryu of Seoul, South Korea; Jahari Stampley of Chicago, Illinois; Jordan Isaiah Williams of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Jenny Xu of Surrey and Vancouver, British Columbia.

These aspiring musicians will compete in the Semifinals on Saturday, October 14 from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at PAC NYC. The semifinalists will perform before an all-star judging panel of internationally acclaimed jazz pianists including Bill Charlap, Orrin Evans, Herbie Hancock, Hiromi and Danilo Pérez. Each semifinalist will perform for 15 minutes accompanied by a stellar rhythm section featuring bassist Rodney Whitaker and drummer Carl Allen.

From this group, the judges will select three finalists to perform in the Competition Finals on Sunday evening, October 15. At stake is more than $150,000 in scholarships and prizes, including a $50,000 first place award, $25,000 second place award, and $10,000 third place award. The evening will culminate with an All-Star Gala Concert featuring performances by artists including Ambrose Akinmusire, Jean Baylor, John Beasley (Musical Director), Dee Dee Bridgewater, A Bu, Terri Lyne Carrington, Anat Cohen, Joe Lovano, Romero Lubambo, Michael Mayo, Somi, Helen Sung, Ben Williams, and Lizz Wright among others. The Institute will present its Maria Fisher Founder’s Award to five-time GRAMMY Award-winning jazz vocalist and educator Dianne Reeves. Internationally celebrated architect Frank Gehry will receive the Institute’s Herbie Hancock Humanitarian Award for his commitment to arts education, especially jazz and classical music training for young people.

Proceeds from the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition and All-Star Gala Concert will support the Institute’s free, year-round jazz education programs, which serve students from under-resourced public schools across the United States and around the world.

Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition Semifinals
Saturday, October 14, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
PAC NYC, 251 Fulton Street, New York, NY 10007

Seats for the Semifinals are free of charge but limited, as space allows. Walk-up guests are welcome to check-in at the Audience Services desk for admission.

Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition Finals and All-Star Gala Concert
Sunday, October 15 at 6 p.m.
PAC NYC, 251 Fulton Street, New York, NY 10007

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Piano Competition is presented in association with PAC NYC. Tickets are $59 to $149 and may be purchased via the PAC NYC website at w ww.pacnyc.org.

2023 Competition Semifinalist Bios

Alan Bartuš was born in Lučenec, Slovakia and studied jazz piano at Musik und Kunst University in Vienna, Austria. He went on to win an instrumental performance award at the Slovak Jazz Competition and has since performed with his trio at Bratislava Jazz Days Festival, Top Jazz Fest, Jazz Fest Trencin and Liptov Jazz Fest. Bartuš won the prestigious Austrian Ö1 Jazz Prize and attended the Manhattan School of Music. He has toured and recorded with saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi, and collaborated with Tim Armacost and Peter Erskine. Most recently, Bartuš won the 2023 Artedea Jazz Competition in Austria.

Joe Block is a pianist, composer, arranger, bandleader, educator and musical director who was born and raised in Philadelphia. He studied at the Juilliard School and Columbia University. Block has performed and toured with Wynton Marsalis, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Chris Potter, Alvin Ailey Dance Company and Leslie Odom, Jr. He arranges and composes for the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Wynton Marsalis Septet, Juilliard Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia. Block is the musical director and pianist for Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Future of Jazz Orchestra. He regularly performs with his own trio and quintet.

Caelan Cardello of Teaneck, New Jersey has been playing piano since age 5 and began performing professionally at age 16. As a Jazz House Kids student for seven years, he learned from the greatest jazz mentors and performed at Dizzy’s Club and the Montclair Jazz Festival. Cardello has performed with Christian McBride, Joe Farnsworth, Jimmy Cobb, Cécile McLorin Salvant and Rufus Reid. He was one of five finalists selected for the 2023 American Pianists Awards jazz competition. Cardello received his bachelor’s degree in jazz performance from William Paterson University and is now earning his master’s degree at the Juilliard School.

Esteban Castro of Hackensack, New Jersey was the youngest winner of the Montreux Jazz Piano Solo Competition and the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition. A senior on full scholarship at the Juilliard School, he has received three ASCAP Foundation Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Awards and was a 2023 American Pianists Awards finalist. Castro has played with Billy Drummond, Billy Hart, Joe Lovano, Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, Marcus Miller, Mark Whitfield and many other jazz greats. He has performed at the Blue Note, NPR Tiny Desk, Birdland, Dizzy’s Club, The Jazz Gallery, NJPAC, Smalls, The Black Cat, Carnegie Hall and Steinway Hall.

Paul Cornish hails from Houston, where he studied at the prestigious High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. He was one of seven students worldwide selected to attend the jazz performance master’s degree program at the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz at UCLA. Cornish received the Los Angeles Jazz Society’s 2020 New Note Commission and was awarded first place in the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition. He also received the grand prize in the 2018 American Jazz Piano Competition. Cornish has performed worldwide with notable artists including Joshua Redman, Louis Cole, Theo Croker, Snoh Aalegra, Terrace Martin, Thumpasaurus and HAIM.

Brandon Goldberg of Miami began playing piano at age 3. At a young age, he was featured on national television in Little Big Shots, The Steve Harvey Show and Harry, hosted by Harry Connick, Jr. Goldberg has performed at the Newport, Litchfield, SFJAZZ, Twin Cities and Caramoor jazz festivals and appeared at Dizzy’s Club, Birdland, the Blue Note and the Apollo Theater. A 2022 ASCAP Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer awardee, he was commissioned to write two compositions performed by the Miami Symphony Orchestra. Goldberg has released two albums, both earning four-star reviews from DownBeat and being named Top Albums of the year.

Connor Rohrer of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania has been a member of the DownBeat Award-winning Teen Town jazz fusion trio since 2015. He received his bachelor’s degree from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, where he is currently pursuing a master’s degree in music theory and composition. He also serves as the teaching assistant for the university’s jazz piano department. Rohrer frequently performs with two-time GRAMMY winner Samara Joy. In addition to his performance abilities, he has developed his skills in composition, transcription/notation, analysis and pedagogy.

Dabin Ryu is an award-winning jazz pianist from Seoul, South Korea. Ryu received a bachelor’s degree in jazz performance and jazz composition from the Berklee College of Music and a master’s degree in jazz studies from the Manhattan School of Music. She now attends the Juilliard School’s Artist Diploma program. Ryu has performed with world-renowned artists including Kurt Elling, Billy Harper, Rodney Jones, Ralph Peterson and Neal Smith, and appeared at top venues including Blues Alley, Dizzy’s Club, Harlem Stage, Scullers, Smalls and Zinc Bar. An accomplished bandleader and composer, she has led international tours.

Jahari Stampley of Chicago is a National YoungArts Competition winner who has toured with Stanley Clarke and is featured on Derrick Hodge’s Color of Noise album. He has performed at leading venues including Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, SFJAZZ and The Met Philadelphia, and headlined and performed solo piano tours in Germany and Switzerland. Stampley is the bandleader and pianist for the feature film Spinning Gold. He won the Bösendorfer prize at the 2019 American Pianists Awards jazz competition. Stampley created all of the animation, art and music for his first music app, Piano Chronicles.

Jordan Isaiah Williams is an internationally recognized pianist from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania who has toured the U.S. and internationally with Bobby Watson, Curtis Lundy, Camille Thurman, the Darrell Green Quartet and Isaiah Collier. He performs regularly with Philip Harper, Winard Harper, Duane Eubanks, Ruben Fox, Taru Alexander, Corey Wallace and many others. Originally from Philadelphia, Williams began his classical and jazz piano instruction at age 7 at the Settlement Music School and the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and the Performing Arts. Recently, he performed at the 2023 Newport Jazz Festival as part of The Bobby Watson All-Star Quintet.

Jenny Xu is a pianist from Surrey and Vancouver, British Columbia who received her bachelor’s degree in music performance from the Berklee College of Music on a full scholarship. She earned her master’s degree in jazz piano performance from the Manhattan School of Music, where she held the piano chair in the Latin GRAMMY-nominated Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra and worked closely with Paquito D’Rivera and Irakere. Xu has performed at more than a dozen festivals and shared the stage with artists including Candido Camero, George Garzone, Eddie Gomez, Ingrid Jensen, Dave Liebman, Harold Mabern Arturo O’Farrill, New York Voices, Kendrick Scott and Buster Williams.

Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Competition

Formerly the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz International Competition, the Hancock Institute Competition is recognized as the world’s most prestigious jazz competition and for discovering the next generation of jazz masters, including saxophonist Joshua Redman; vocalists Cécile McLorin Salvant, Jane Monheit, Gretchen Parlato and Jazzmeia Horn; pianist Kris Bowers; bassist Ben Williams; and trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire, among others. Major scholarships and prizes are awarded to the talented young musicians participating in the Competition. The scholarships help pay tuition for college-level jazz education studies and provide funds for private, specialized instruction. hancockinstitute.org/competition/

Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz is a nonprofit education organization offering the world’s most promising young musicians college level training by internationally acclaimed jazz masters and presenting public school music education programs for young people around the world. The Institute preserves, perpetuates and expands jazz as a global art form, and utilizes jazz as a means to unite people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities. All of the Institute’s programs are provided free of charge. hancockinstitute.org

Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC)

Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) is the cultural cornerstone and final public element of the World Trade Center site. Led by Board Chair Mike Bloomberg, Executive Director Khady Kamara, and Artistic Director Bill Rauch, the new performing arts center in Lower Manhattan is a dynamic home for the arts, serving audiences and creators through flexible venues enabling the facility to embrace wide-ranging artistic programs. The PAC NYC Inaugural Season will feature commissions, World Premieres, co-productions, and collaborative work across theater, dance, music, opera, film, and more. pacnyc.org