Fun With Jazz Educational Program

The "Fun With Jazz" Educational Program (© Copyright 2006 by Ray Reach) is currently sponsored by the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and presented, free of charge, in elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and colleges and universities.

History

Beginning in 2006, founder Ray Reach and a faculty of jazz professionals, known collectively as the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame All-Stars (AJHoF All-Stars), have presented free one-hour lessons introducing jazz through live performance and interactive activities. The program, which was originated under the auspices of the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Alys Stephens Center, includes four basic but customizable presentations, as described below.

Presentations
*Fun With Jazz I: The basic history of jazz, the concept of improvisation, description of the various jazz instruments, discussion of notable musicians and more.
*Fun With Jazz II, The Musicians: A more detailed look at a few of the most important musicians in the history of jazz.
*Fun With Jazz III, Jazz Today: Discussion of the influence of jazz in contemporary music and the life of modern musicians and vocalists.
*Fun With Jazz IV, Workshops on Jazz Styles and Improvisational Techniques: Aimed at jazz ensembles in middle school, high school and college, a one or two day intensive workshop covering jazz performance and improvisational techniques.

The Faculty
The faculty of the "Fun With Jazz Educational Program is a working jazz ensemble collectively known as the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame All-Stars. The current membership roster of the AJHoF All-Stars includes: Tommy Stewart (trumpet), Omari Thomas (trumpet and saxophone), Ken Watters (trumpet), Chad Fisher (trombone), Billy Bargetzi (trombone), Gary Wheat (saxophones), Dave Amaral (saxophones, flute, clarinet), Dave Miller (saxophone and chromatic harmonica), Abe Becker (bass), Chris Wendle (bass), Cleveland Eaton (bass), Sonny Harris (drums), Steve Ramos (drums), John Nuckols (drums) and Ray Reach (director, piano and vocals).

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