BIO:
The Jazz Arts Group of Columbus (JAG) is America's oldest not-for-profit arts organization dedicated to producing, performing and promoting jazz. JAG is the third largest performing arts organization in Columbus and consists of four focus areas: the Columbus Jazz Orchestra (CJO), one of the world's finest professional jazz orchestras; the Jazz Academy, JAG's extensive instructional programs educating both students and adults about jazz and American music; Inside Track, a new jazz and blues performance series presented at the historic Lincoln Theatre; and Affiliate Musicians, a program providing employment opportunities for professional musicians.
The Columbus Jazz Orchestra (CJO) is led by trumpet virtuoso Byron Stripling and presents over twenty concerts each season at the historic Southern Theatre. The 2000 subscribers for the "Swingin' with the CJO" concert series makes the CJO audience the largest subscription base for any jazz orchestra series in the United States. The CJO now also performs an outdoor summer concert series, JazZoo, at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
The Jazz Arts Group believes in the power of music to transform lives and is committed to offering lifelong learing opportunities for individuals of all ages, interest, backgrounds and abilities. In 2009, JAG opened the Jazz Academy community instructional space in the newly restored and historic Lincoln Theatre complex for multi-generational and recreational music making, ensemble playing, after-school programs, technology instruction and lectures with world-class musicians - a place where everyone can listen, learn and play.
Through a variety of education and outreach programs, JAG makes a significant impact on thousands of people each year, young and old alike, providing the opportunity to experience America's indigenous art form - jazz. Youth jazz ensembles, in-school performances, professional development for educators, internships for young people, master classes with world-renowned musicians and the new Jazz Academy initiative are just a few of the ways the Jazz Arts Group is making a difference through music.
JAG has broadened its performance scope by presenting a contemporary music series, called Inside Track and the PBJ & Jazz family jazz series, both in the newly renovated Lincoln Theatre, located in Columbus’ historic King-Lincoln District.
Our Affiliate Musicians program continues to work with area musicians on professional development and performing opportunities. Part of the mission of the Jazz Arts Group is to provide employment opportunities for our community’s finest musicians, linking talented professionals with serious consumers interested in supporting live jazz. The Affiliate Musicians program features artists who represent the highest level of musicianship and professionalism in any setting. The Jazz Arts Group will provide solo musicians, small groups or full bands for elegant background music, lively dance music or an entertaining show.
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