Dear Friend of Oaktown Jazz Workshops,

We are looking forward to entering 2014 with the momentum of a year full of growth and great music behind us.  Thanks to your support we continue to make high quality jazz education accessible to young musicians in our community.

As a part of our “Jazz Encounters” program, this past summer we featured an inspiring Afro-Latin Jazz Listening Party hosted by percussionist John Santos and we collaborated with 51Oakland to present an insightful clinic with saxophonist Billy Harper and pianist George Cables.

Our “Jazz in the Schools” program continues in the 2013/2014 academic year with OJW now leading the after school jazz band at Claremont Middle School in Oakland with twice weekly rehearsals and our instructors regularly conduct clinics at both King and Longfellow Middle Schools in Berkeley.

This fall we introduced a musicianship class and a music theory class for students to improve their understanding of musical skills and concepts.  These courses will be offered every spring and fall and will enhance the students’ performance education.

At the core of Oaktown Jazz Workshops are year round, weekly performance workshops, where young musicians learn the musical language, idioms and repertoire of jazz from professional musicians dedicated to helping youth develop their talents.  OJW’s Performance Ensemble regularly performs at community events throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

These programs are a continuation of our Founding Director, Khalil Shaheed’s vision of an organization that strengthens our community through music, promotes jazz as a cultural art form and invests in the future of young musicians.  It has always been through the generosity of friends like you that we remain such a healthy and vibrant organization.  Last year we launched the Khalil Shaheed Scholarship Fund to cover the cost of our workshops for young musicians who could not otherwise afford tuition.  We now ask for your contribution in whatever amount you can manage. Your support of Oaktown Jazz Workshops encourages our children’s creativity, elevates music education and appreciation, and enriches our diverse community.

Sincerely,

Ravi Abcarian
Executive Director