Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz

In 2000, the Institute launched an Internet-based jazz curriculum (www.jazzinamerica.org) designed to be taught in every 5th, 8th, and 11th grade public school American history and social studies classroom in the United States. Offered at no cost, the curriculum examines the evolution of jazz styles, the contributions of important performers, and the musical techniques involved in the creation and performance of jazz. A public school touring component of the program, led by renowned jazz artists including Antonio Hart, Vanessa Rubin and Bobby Watson, has reached tens of thousands of students and teachers. The most recent addition to the curriculum is The Blues and Jazz - Two American Classics (www.thebluesandjazz.org).

Established in 1987, this is the world’s most prestigious jazz competition. Each competition focuses on a different instrument, and features an all-star judging panel. The Competition has launched the careers of pianists Kris Bowers and Jacky Terrasson; saxophonist Joshua Redman; vocalists Jane Monheit and Cecile McLorin Salvant; bassist Ben Williams; trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire; and many other jazz greats. Dozens of semifinalists have forged successful careers as jazz performers and educators. The first place winner receives a guaranteed recording contract with Concord Records.

Since 1989, the Institute has gone into public schools across the United States and around the world, introducing millions of young people to the cultural richness of jazz. Master classes, workshops and concerts are presented by leading jazz musicians and educators to help students foster a sense of creativity and self-esteem and to provide children with role models. Programs are provided on a daily basis in Washington, DC and Los Angeles. The National Performing Arts High Schools Jazz Program provides instruction and high-profile performance opportunities for students who attend public performing arts high schools in Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York City, Newark, San Francisco and Washington, DC.

The United Nations and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated April 30 as International Jazz Day to highlight jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe. The Institute serves as the lead nonprofit organization charged with planning and promoting this annual worldwide celebration. International Jazz Day is recognized on the official calendars of both the United Nations and UNESCO. Every year on April 30, universities, libraries, schools, arts centers, organizations of all disciplines, UNESCO and United Nations missions, embassies and government outposts around the world host special events and concerts to honor this revered musical art form that for over a century has brought together people of different cultures, religions and nationalities. Each year, International Jazz Day is celebrated through thousands of programs in more than 190 countries on all seven continents, and reaches more than 3 billion people worldwide across print and digital press coverage, television and radio transmissions, public performances, education and enrichment programs, and social media.