The principal educational objective of this organization is to inculcate an understanding of the importance of America's classical music, jazz, in students in the Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade county public school systems.

South Florida JAZZ, Inc (SFJ) produces the "Jazz Impressions" monthly concerts preceded by either a lecture/demonstration by a jazz artist or educator or a "Meet the Artist" question and answer period that allows the audience to ask historical and other jazz-related questions relative to the featured artists. In addition, it has been a contributing sponsor of the Broward Library Foundation's "Books 'n' Bears" program providing live musical performances, stuffed animals, and books to Title XX children during the Holiday season.

Further, SFJ is a sponsor of free student workshops and concerts produced in conjunction with the University of Miami, Florida International University Jazz Studies, and most recently, the Broward Community College Jazz Studies programs. There is active collaboration with BCC for the future with scheduled workshops and concerts on the BCC campus facilities.

SFJ encourages visiting artists to give master classes and clinics to collegiate and high school music students. Previous participants in this program include Gerry Mulligan, Dizzy Gillespie, Joe Lovano, Bob Mintzer, Arturo Sandoval, Randy Brecker, Joe Henderson, Paquito D'Rivera and Paul Wertico. This is an ongoing program to introduce music students to elite professionals.

We recognize that jazz developed from African and European influences and grew with our country. It captured the spirit of the nation through its melding of cultures; its independence, improvisation, and energy; all of which are hallmarks of American ideals.

Today, jazz is one of our country's most sought after international exports, with its language "spoken" by people around the world. Jazz, emanating from America, has become world music. Without proper education about its history and live performance exposure to the children, Jazz is in danger of becoming marginalized or even trivialized in this country.

SFJ uses these lecture/demonstrations as a springboard for further opportunities to listen to Jazz music as entertainment. SFJ brings educators and first-rate professional musicians to the schools to accomplish its goals.

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