Mellon Foundation Unveils $35 Million Initiative to Preserve Jazz Heritage and Celebrate Iconic Artists
On February 18, 2025, the Mellon Foundation announced a groundbreaking $35 million initiative to foster the cultural preservation of jazz music, shine a spotlight on its celebrated artists, and enhance the overall jazz ecosystem. A key component of this initiative is the establishment of the 'Jazz Legacies Fellowship,' a $15 million program created in partnership with the Jazz Foundation of America (JFA). This fellowship aims to honor and support the artistic achievements of seasoned jazz musicians while ensuring that the stories and contributions of these artists are preserved for future generations.
The inaugural class of this fellowship includes 20 distinguished musicians who exemplify the creative mastery and innovative spirit that define jazz. Over the next four years, the program will welcome a total of 50 Fellows into its ranks, providing crucial support for their continued artistic endeavors. This effort is part of the Mellon Foundation's commitment to developing a healthier cultural ecosystem that respects the artistry and legacy of jazz musicians.
In its inaugural round, the foundation allocated an astounding $4 million to eight pivotal organizations that are fundamental in advocating for and preserving jazz music. These organizations include the 369th Experience, the DC Jazz Festival, and the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance/Belongo, all of which play significant roles in connecting various aspects of the jazz community and history.
Elizabeth Alexander, President of the Mellon Foundation, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Jazz is a quintessentially American art form, and this initiative rightly honors the work of those who continue to drive the evolution of jazz while safeguarding its histories." The initiative aims to create a lasting impact on the jazz scene and deepen public appreciation for this dynamic musical art form.
The selection process for the Jazz Legacies Fellowship was informed by a panel of over 100 musicians, educators, and jazz advocates. This collaborative approach assured a diverse representation of voices in the jazz community, integrating the perspectives of those who have shaped the genre.
Jason Moran, a celebrated pianist and artistic advisor for the fellowship, underscored the initiative’s mission to cultivate intergenerational dialogue and respect long-running artistic contributions. By honoring these artists, the fellowship aims to not only create recognition of their legacies but also provide much-needed financial security, enabling them to continue their creative pursuits.
The fellowship will present each recipient with a lifetime achievement award along with an unrestricted grant of $100,000. This generous support will assist artists aged 62 and older, ensuring they receive the recognition and resources they need to thrive. Additional support will include masterclasses, performance opportunities, and practical guidance on financial and legal matters.
Among the inaugural cohort of fellows is Carmen Lundy, a celebrated vocalist who expressed her gratitude for the recognition and affirmed her commitment to contributing to jazz as one of America’s greatest cultural gifts. The diversity of the fellows—who span styles from avant-garde to fusion, and represent various jazz instruments including bass, saxophone, and drums—reflects the richness and complexity of jazz music itself.Each of these artists has made profound contributions to the genre and continues to influence new generations of musicians today.
The success of the Jazz Legacies Fellowship relies on forging relationships and providing tangible support to those who have dedicated their lives to this essential American art form. As the initiative progresses, it seeks to empower these artists and the communities that celebrate jazz culture.
As the Mellon Foundation and JFA bring this funding and recognition to the forefront, they are fostering an environment that honors the historical significance of jazz while also inspiring and supporting the future of the genre. Those who wish to learn more about the Jazz Legacies Fellows and their ongoing work can visit jazzfoundation.org/jazz-legacies-fellowship. Additionally, interested individuals can subscribe to the Mellon Foundation's newsletter to stay updated on future funding opportunities for jazz initiatives.
In conclusion, this $35 million initiative represents an exciting and hopeful chapter in the ongoing journey of jazz music in America, underlining its vital role in the cultural fabric of the nation. With the support from the Mellon Foundation and alliances like the Jazz Foundation of America, the future of jazz looks promising, equipped to inspire a new generation of artists while honoring its rich heritage.
The inaugural class of this fellowship includes 20 distinguished musicians who exemplify the creative mastery and innovative spirit that define jazz. Over the next four years, the program will welcome a total of 50 Fellows into its ranks, providing crucial support for their continued artistic endeavors. This effort is part of the Mellon Foundation's commitment to developing a healthier cultural ecosystem that respects the artistry and legacy of jazz musicians.
In its inaugural round, the foundation allocated an astounding $4 million to eight pivotal organizations that are fundamental in advocating for and preserving jazz music. These organizations include the 369th Experience, the DC Jazz Festival, and the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance/Belongo, all of which play significant roles in connecting various aspects of the jazz community and history.
Elizabeth Alexander, President of the Mellon Foundation, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Jazz is a quintessentially American art form, and this initiative rightly honors the work of those who continue to drive the evolution of jazz while safeguarding its histories." The initiative aims to create a lasting impact on the jazz scene and deepen public appreciation for this dynamic musical art form.
The selection process for the Jazz Legacies Fellowship was informed by a panel of over 100 musicians, educators, and jazz advocates. This collaborative approach assured a diverse representation of voices in the jazz community, integrating the perspectives of those who have shaped the genre.
Jason Moran, a celebrated pianist and artistic advisor for the fellowship, underscored the initiative’s mission to cultivate intergenerational dialogue and respect long-running artistic contributions. By honoring these artists, the fellowship aims to not only create recognition of their legacies but also provide much-needed financial security, enabling them to continue their creative pursuits.
The fellowship will present each recipient with a lifetime achievement award along with an unrestricted grant of $100,000. This generous support will assist artists aged 62 and older, ensuring they receive the recognition and resources they need to thrive. Additional support will include masterclasses, performance opportunities, and practical guidance on financial and legal matters.
Among the inaugural cohort of fellows is Carmen Lundy, a celebrated vocalist who expressed her gratitude for the recognition and affirmed her commitment to contributing to jazz as one of America’s greatest cultural gifts. The diversity of the fellows—who span styles from avant-garde to fusion, and represent various jazz instruments including bass, saxophone, and drums—reflects the richness and complexity of jazz music itself.Each of these artists has made profound contributions to the genre and continues to influence new generations of musicians today.
The success of the Jazz Legacies Fellowship relies on forging relationships and providing tangible support to those who have dedicated their lives to this essential American art form. As the initiative progresses, it seeks to empower these artists and the communities that celebrate jazz culture.
As the Mellon Foundation and JFA bring this funding and recognition to the forefront, they are fostering an environment that honors the historical significance of jazz while also inspiring and supporting the future of the genre. Those who wish to learn more about the Jazz Legacies Fellows and their ongoing work can visit jazzfoundation.org/jazz-legacies-fellowship. Additionally, interested individuals can subscribe to the Mellon Foundation's newsletter to stay updated on future funding opportunities for jazz initiatives.
In conclusion, this $35 million initiative represents an exciting and hopeful chapter in the ongoing journey of jazz music in America, underlining its vital role in the cultural fabric of the nation. With the support from the Mellon Foundation and alliances like the Jazz Foundation of America, the future of jazz looks promising, equipped to inspire a new generation of artists while honoring its rich heritage.
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