The Fiber of Every Human Being
Celebrating International Jazz Day April 30th
a UNESCO/Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Event
“Jazz is really about the human experience. It’s about the ability of human beings to take the worst of circumstances and struggles and turn it into something creative and constructive. That’s something that’s built into the fiber of every human being.”
In 2011, jazz icon Herbie Hancock and UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organization) co-created the celebration of International Jazz Day designated on April 30th of each year. UNESCO has always stood for promoting peace among people.
“Promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights and human dignity; eradicating discrimination; promoting freedom of expression; fostering gender equality; and reinforcing the role of youth in enacting social change" ~ this is the aim of International Jazz Day.
This distinct art form was born out of a means of survival. People with the inherent need to create and express - the indomitable spirit of humans. Born in the southern United Sates, this unique art form is now performed, heard, and appreciated with other cultures adding their own flavor all over our globe. Derivations through generations continue to morph, reinterpret, and grow this incredible art form we call Jazz.
As a child, I knew I was a musician; singing, playing piano and other instruments in all genres, and always being drawn to jazz. In adolescence, soothing spirits and bringing people together became an added passion. I worked many years in junior high and high school for what is known as the NMUN (National Model United Nations). After several years of doing copious research, debating in Washington, I realized this was not the best use of my skill set, though my intentions were good. I knew music to be my modality.
2019 marks my 3rd year in celebrating and sponsoring an International Jazz Day concert. I revel that it unites the elements I love and for which I stand: Peace and Jazz. That’s so worth celebrating!
“In the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed.”