JEN Outreach Program

The JEN Outreach program started in St. Louis at the first conference in 2010 and has been continued each year to aid in fulfilling the JEN mission of advancing education, promoting performance and developing new audiences. It was designed to assist in bringing quality jazz education/performances to schools and community locations in the area, concurrent with the annual JEN conference. 

The following JEN Outreach artists performed clinics or performances at 13 area schools and a community center:

  • Tennessee State Collegians to Greathouse-Shryock Elementary School

  • Houston (TX) High School for the Performing and Visual Arts to The Brown School

  • Northern Kentucky Jazz Vocal Ensemble to Hite Elementary School

  • Randy Sabien (MN) to Kammerer Middle School

  • Andrew Schneiderman/The Brubeck Jazz Quintet (CA) to Ballard High School

  • Ed Neumiester (Graz) to The Youth Performing Arts School

  • High Altitude Vocal Jazz Ensemble (AZ) to Stopher Elementary School

  • Thelma Yellin Big Band from Israel to Crossroads Elementary School and the Jewish Community Center

  • Bowling Green University (OH) Jazz Singers to Noe Middle School

  • University of Illinois Concert Jazz Band and Jazz Vocal Ensemble to Atherton High School

  • Sharon Burch and Freddie the Frog to Price Elementary School, Layne Elementary School, Lowe Elementary School and Bloom Elementary School

Here is a wonderful thank you note to share the powerful effects of these performances: 

"Just want to tell you that our visiting group from NAU (Ryan Holder, High Altitude) was totally awesome. It was one of the best assemblies we have ever had. It was worth every ounce of trouble just to hear the buzz in the hallways from the kids who attended the performance. I don't think we have ever had anyone they liked more. Not only were they very talented and entertaining, but they were so personable with the students. My class got to be with them a few extra minutes and I thought some of them were going to cry when they left. The selections chosen were perfect for the audience. It was a big hit when they allowed some of our students to come down and do some call and response scat singing with them! I wanted to thank you and let you to know that it made a huge impact on our school. Thanks again and please let JEN know how much we appreciate it."

- Deanna, Teacher
The Stopher School/Arts & Humanities

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