"Speaking of Jazz"

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What is "Speaking of Jazz"?

The mission of "Speaking of Jazz" is first and foremost to introduce children to the power and relevance of jazz music. Through performances and contextual explanations, the program seeks to illustrate that "jazz" is less of a musical genre and more of a description of how people communicate with music. Listening, improvisation, and freedom of expression are the main components which make jazz special and vital, though these concepts can be applied to other areas of life, too. Components of the presentation include directed listening, interactive performances (where students sing along with and be a part of the tunes played at certain times), as well as music specifically written to be relatable to young students.

Note: The "Speaking of Jazz" program was offered to the Washington D.C.-Metropolitan area schools via the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts National Symphony Orchestra In-School Ensemble program from January 2014 until March 2020 when COVID struck.

Quotes from teachers who have experienced a “Speaking of Jazz" presentation:

“Mr. Haskins and his fellow musicians brought jazz alive for my students through quality performance and stimulating questions. I have never seen my students so attentive for an entire hour!"

Graciela Briceno, Music Teacher at Garrison Elementary School (Washington, D.C.)

“They gave insightful discussions, encouraged audience participation and had fun with their topics and pieces that kept the students’ interests while still maintaining the high standard of performance expectations and learning atmosphere."

“…I highly recommend administrators, teachers and schools to put forth the effort in having these musicians come to them and share some of the musical knowledge that they are willing to give."

Michael Utell, Band Director at Woodburn School for the Fine and Communicative Arts (Falls Church, VA)