The Jazz Workshop, Incorporated is a music education and performance based organization. It was established by a great musician, the late Harold W. Young, Sr. who had a vision for providing “an alternative to the rhythms of the street.” Learning how to play an instrument helps children and youth to participate in an activity that nourishes the mind and the soul. Learning how to play an instrument helps children to learn good study habits through realizing the value of repetition. It enhances their self-esteem, self-efficacy, and enables them to participate in activities of a meritorious nature such as band, orchestra, and other types of combos. It provides an outlet that is “cool” where they can socialize with other students through a value creating activity.
The mission of the Jazz Workshop is to preserve jazz music as an art form while also providing quality music lessons to children as well as adults. The JWI has been a model program for many other entities that provide music education as well as entertainment. Throughout the year from September through June, the JWI offers affordable music lessons on Saturdays at the Carnegie Library in Homewood. There is also a big band rehearsal each Saturday from 2:30-4:30 where musicians can bring their instruments and read big band charts.
Throughout the year the Jazz Workshop, Incorporated hosts a series of concerts featuring local and national musical acts. Family Night, Jazz on the Steps, and various fund raising concerts are examples of some the JWI’s activities.
We also visit various venues such as libraries, nursing homes, and schools, and day care centers, through our jazz mobile programs.
We are celebrating 47 years of excellence in the form of a “Trilogy concert series.” The first of the series is entitled “ALTO MADNESS.” This is a collaboration of the world’s finest jazz saxophonists, Tony Campbell, Kenny Blake, and Richie Cole. It will be held on November 7th from 5:30- 7:00 p.m. at the Carnegie Library 7101 Hamilton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15208.
We invite everyone to attend this event. It is free of charge but we do accept donations. Please plan to come and bring your friends and family.
