Jazz is a phenomenon
that is intricately bound to the history of America and inextricably
linked with the lives of large groups of Americans, particularly
African-Americans. Thus Jazzmobile is an unprecedented organization that
seeks to transcend dialect, region, and social class in the preservation,
propagation and presentation of "American Classic Music," namely,
Jazz.
Jazzmobile has
played a major role in the renaissance of Jazz. The organization has been
involved in providing the impetus for Jazz programs and in particular arts
in education. Jazzmobile has influenced the vitality of the music beyond
its New York base, serving as a paradigm of similar organizations and
institutions across the country and throughout the world.
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Dr. William (Billy) Taylor,
Founder, Chairman Emeritus
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The vitality of the
music today is a testament to what a passionate, faithful few have
accomplished not withstanding past disinterest and neglect. It is an
affirmation to the power of Jazz to inspire that kind of devotion.
Jazzmobile former board member the late Dizzy Gillespie once remarked that
"People have died for this music," and added with his customary dry wit.
"You can't get more serious than that." Jazzmobile and those who have
shared its vision and assisted in the mission to bring Jazz to the people
have given their lives to this music. They have done so, because the music
has given so much to them.
As new technology continues to widen the parameters for Jazz and
new vehicles for reaching audiences around the globe are being discovered,
Jazzmobile will take advantage of these opportunities to keep alive and
strengthen the heritage of this unique American form.
Jazzmobile
welcomes the challenge of providing the leadership and direction that will
enable us to grow and prevail as the vanguard Jazz
organization.
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