Jazz: And Jazz for All

The Rockefeller Foundation and Jazz at Lincoln Center are teaming up on a new education outreach program for students in disadvantaged schools.

 The program, titled “Jazz for Young People: The Resilient Tour,” will connect live jazz performances to an American history curriculum. It is expected to reach 9,000 students in 60 schools in five cities, including New Orleans; Chicago; St. Louis, Missouri; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Sydney, Australia.

The initiative is an expansion of a partnership that was first forged in New York City public schools and will highlight jazz’s response to social struggle, with an emphasis on resilience. The tour is fueled by a $1 million foundation grant and led by Wynton Marsalis.

Music: Farewell, Neville Brothers

It’s hellos and goodbyes in the music world. Days after the Replacements announced a reunion tour, the Neville Brothers are making plans for a farewell concert to cap off their long career as performers.

Joining them for their last show at “Nevilles Forever: A Celebration of the Neville Brothers and Their Music” will be Allen Toussaint, Terence Blanchard, Trombone Shorty and Widespread Panic, among others, according to a news release announcing the event. The May 2 concert comes toward the end of this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, though it isn’t affiliated with that event.

The Neville Brothers—Aaron, Art, Charles and Cyril—have been playing in one fashion or another since the 1950s, and its members are associated with hits like “Sister Rosa.” Aaron, probably the most celebrated brother, made it big outside the group recording “Don’t Know Much” and “Everybody Plays the Fool.”

“The Neville Brothers are the royal family of New Orleans funk,” said Don Was in a statement. Was will serve as musical director for the evening.

- The Wall Street Journal

Can U Be Bolden?

Of course, the lead role in the planned jazz bio pic is already gone - to actor Anthony Mackie. But, as it turns out, there are openings fro lots of other musicians and characters, as we hear from AccessAtlanta.com

AThe movie "Bolden," which per imdb is "a mythical account of the life of Buddy Bolden, the first Cornet King of New Orleans," has been filming in Atlanta and needs some musical extras.
It's a period piece starring Gary Carr ("Death in Paradise," "Downton Abbey") in the title role.
 Michael Rooker("Guardians of the Galaxy," "The Walking Dead"); Omari Hardwick ("For Colored Girls," "Being Mary Jane"); Nelsan Ellis ("Get On Up," "True Blood,"); Omar Gooding ("Ghost Dad," "Single Ladies") and others. I'm told it's been filming at the Goat Farm Arts Center, prized by filmmaker for its vintage rustic buildings.
Here's the casting call for musician extras:
"We are still looking for a couple African American Musicians for scenes working very soon." They're looking for guys who play the flute, piccolo or clarinet. Here's how to apply:
"Please submit with 3 current photos
1 headshot
1 half body shot
1 full body shot

Include the following information

Full Legal name
Age
Email address
Phone number
Height
Weight
Jacket size
Neck
Sleeve
Waist
Inseam
Shoe

Send emails to Jazzmhc14@gmail.com
Subject: Last of the Jazz"