Wynton Marsalis expresses his thoughts “Jazz music is existence music; it doesn’t take you out of the world, it puts you in the world, it makes you deal with the world…and that’s it.”

As I reflect on this moment in time filled with uncertainty and chaos there are refuges we can connect with to calm our mind and nourish our soul. Guiding and providing opportunities for the next generation of artists, teachers and leaders in our own community through music and jazz bands in our schools connects us to a future of rich learning and experience.

“Jazz to me is a living music. It’s a music that since it’s beginning has expressed the feelings, the dream, hopes of the people.” Dexter Gordon.

The Blue Jay Jazz Foundation moves ahead in 2025 with a new year of supporting music education and honoring local jazz student scholars. We wish to recognize and encourage their energy and accomplished study in jazz performance.

Join us on August 21st at the first day of our summer festival to celebrate these student musicians playing live with The Digital Audio Projekt.

Our expanded Board of Directors and Past President, Chris Levister, long time nourisher and guide of our foundation’s vision, are gathered together in a mission of nurturing the future generations of jazz in our own community while bringing world class jazz performances in a stunning environment. “Jazz is about being in the moment.” Herbie Hancock stated. Consider joining our all-volunteer mission or just sit back and be part of the musical journey. We hope to entertain you, to delight you and perhaps stir your motivation in coming again and again while championing our cause.

“Jazz is democracy in action.” Wynton Marsalis believes that jazz is the perfect example of cooperation, listening to others, and compromising. Every musician has a voice in the jazz ensemble but must work in harmony. Similarly, under the democratic process, there are diverse views, but all work towards accomplishing one goal. “Democracy thrives on inclusion, respect and dialogue”,  Brad Melhdau/Golden Jazz.

Thank you for celebrating our jazz scholarship recipients with us and keeping music programs and particularly jazz alive in our local community and in the Rim of the World School District.

Hugh A. Bialecki, DMD

President, Blue Jay Jazz Foundation