Channel Title: American Jazz Museum Channel Description: Located in the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District in Kansas City, MO, the American Jazz Museum showcases the sights and sounds of jazz through interactive exhibits and films, the Changing Gallery exhibit space, Horace M. Peterson III Visitors Center, Blue Room jazz club and Gem Theater. Since its inception in 1997, the Museum hosts thousands of students, scholars, musicians and fans of the arts for over 200 performances, education programs, special exhibitions, community events and more each year, providing an opportunity to learn about the legends, honor their legacy, or simply enjoy the sounds of modern day jazz. The mission of the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City is to celebrate and exhibit the experience of jazz as an original American art form through performance, exhibition, education, and research at one of the country's jazz crossroads – 18th & Vine. Visit us at americanjazzmuseum.org and follow us on social media for updates on programming, live music, and more. <video> Gerald Dunn: Shaping Kansas City’s Jazz Legacy, One Note at a Time Description: In this episode, we sit down with Gerald Dunn, Director of Entertainment at the American Jazz Museum, as he shares his incredible journey to becoming a master saxophonist. Dunn reveals the key influences that shaped his sound, from his mother’s strong work ethic to the inspiring local gospel saxophonists. He also talks about his unexpected decision to stay in Kansas City, after initially planning to move to New York, and how that led to his pivotal role at the American Jazz Museum. Dunn gives an insider’s look at curating talent for the Blue Room and major jazz festivals, and even shares memorable moments—like the time Prince dropped in for a jam session! Throughout the episode, Dunn underscores the importance of preserving Kansas City’s rich jazz history and ensuring the stories of jazz legends live on. Don’t miss this captivating conversation filled with music, history, and inspiration! 🎷 SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc </video> <video> Bonus Interview: Ethnomusicologist Dr. Bennett Honors the Past & Shapes the Future of Black Music Description: This episode of the "Big Break" podcast stars a guest host, Chiara Cooper, Director of Marketing at the American Jazz Museum. In it she interviews Dr. Dina Bennett herself, ethnomusicologist and the executive director of the American Jazz Museum. The podcast delves into Dr. Bennett's educational and professional background, which includes a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology and extensive experience working in various African American music museums. As an ethnomusicologist, Dr. Bennett is uniquely positioned to lead the American Jazz Museum, an institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of jazz, which has deep roots in African American culture. Throughout the interview, Dr. Bennett shares her passion for music, her mentors, and her commitment to inspiring the next generation of ethnomusicologists and arts leaders. The podcast highlights Dr. Bennett's "big break" moments, including her role in the development of the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville and her journey to becoming the executive director of the American Jazz Museum. As she takes on this leadership role, Dr. Bennett expresses her excitement to build upon the museum's strong foundation and guide it into the future, ensuring that the stories and contributions of African American musicians and artists are honored and shared with the world. SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> Reclaiming the Jazz District: Ollie Gates on Barbecue, Business and Black Culture Down on the Vine Description: This podcast episode features an interview with Ollie Gates, the visionary behind the iconic Gates BBQ in Kansas City, Missouri. The conversation delves into Gates' personal history, the evolution of the family business, and his deep commitment to the Kansas City community. Gates shares his memories of growing up in the 18th and Vine district, the expansion of Gates Barbecue, and his emphasis on community service and giving back. He also discusses the lessons he learned from his time in the U.S. Army and his vision for revitalizing the 18th and Vine district. Overall, the episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of Ollie Gates, a true icon of Kansas City's business and cultural landscape. SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> Preserving the Legend of Miles with Rodman Marymor and Enrico Merlin Description: This podcast episode provides a deep dive into the life and legacy of legendary jazz musician Miles Davis. The host, Dr. Dina Bennett and guests Enrico Merlin and Rodman Marymor, discuss Miles' profound influence on music, his innovative leadership style, and his impact as a fashion icon. The conversation explores Miles' extensive memorabilia collection that has been donated to the American Jazz Museum, as well as Enrico's extensive database cataloging Miles' music and performances. The episode paints a multifaceted portrait of Miles Davis, highlighting his artistic genius, his unconventional approach to mentoring musicians, and the enduring impact he had on jazz and popular culture. It's a comprehensive and insightful exploration of one of the most influential figures in 20th century music. SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> 🎙️ Diallo Javonne French: Capturing Kansas City's Musical Soul Through Film and Photography Description: In this episode, we dive into the world of filmmaker and photographer Diallo Javonne French, a Kansas City native with a passion for preserving the city’s rich jazz history. Diallo shares his unique journey from musician to visual storyteller, focusing on his dedication to documenting the timelessness of jazz through black-and-white photography. Diallo also opens up about the challenges of filmmaking, from securing funding to navigating music licensing, with a spotlight on his latest documentary, *Kansas City Dreaming*, which explores the African American musical history of the city. Tune in to hear Diallo's stories from working in the 1990s Atlanta music scene, including moments spent on TLC music video sets and encounters with legends like Tupac. This episode is a celebration of one artist's commitment to preserving Kansas City's musical legacy for future generations. 📸🎶 SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> What do you consider your Big Break, Gerald Dunn of the Jazz Disciples? Description: Musician Spotlight: Gerald Dunn on His Journey to Becoming a Jazz Saxophonist and what he thinks his big break really was. #JazzMusician #KansasCity </video> <video> Meeting Bishop Tolbert and The Birth of Jazz Disciples Description: Coming with the jazz band name The Jazz Disciples. Musician Spotlight: Gerald Dunn on His Journey to Becoming a Jazz Saxophonist #JazzMusician #KansasCity </video> <video> Celebrating the life and legacy of jazz legend Jay Hootie McShann on what would be his 108th b-day! Description: Born in 1916, McShan fell in love with music at an early age and taught himself piano by mimicking songs from the radio. :musical_keyboard: Despite his parents’ disapproval, he couldn’t resist the allure of jazz and blues, sneaking out at night to catch live performances. :crescent_moon: Moving to Kansas City in 1936, McShan started his own big band and played a pivotal role in defining the Kansas City jazz sound. :saxophone: He even gave Charlie Parker the nickname “Bird” after a chicken incident on the road! :chicken::poultry_leg: McShan’s love for music never wavered, and he continued performing well into his eighties. :notes: Join us in honoring this jazz icon who left an indelible mark on Kansas City’s music history and culture. #JayHoodieMcShan #JazzLegend #108thBirthday #MusicLegacy #KansasCityJazz #CharlieParker #LiveMusic #JazzHistory #MusicIcon #CelebratingJayHoodieMcShan @AmericanJazzMuseum SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> Stepping Through History: American Jazz Museum Steppers Lounge and concert highlights. #jazzlovers Description: We just had an amazing time at the Jazz Museum with Miss D Darker Saturday night! 🎷🎵 Wish you all could've been here to experience it too. But don't worry, we'll be back again soon! ✌️❤️ #JazzMuseumVibes #MusicLovers #GoodTimes #LiveMusic #JazzNight #MemoriesMade #SeeYouSoon @AmericanJazzMuseum </video> <video> Exploring the Intersection of Jazz, Poetry, and Community Activism with Glenn North Description: In this episode of the Big Break podcast, host Dr. Dina Bennett sits down with Glenn North, the Director of Inclusive Learning and Creative Impact at the Kansas City Museum. They discuss North's background in poetry and his work bridging jazz, diversity, and community engagement at the American Jazz Museum and beyond. North shares insights on the power of poetry and museums to address social justice, as well as his current initiatives in "restorative poetics." This conversation provides a fascinating look at the intersection of arts, culture, and community in Kansas City. SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> Breaking Down Musical Barriers and Uniting Cultures at the Blue Room Description: #JazzHistory: Exploring the Rich Legacy of the American Jazz Museum #BigBreakPodcast </video> <video> The Big Break Podcast Series Trailer: Volume II Description: Welcome to The Big Break podcast, where we delve into the rich history of jazz, to celebrate artists, entrepreneurs and jazz enthusiasts alike. Join our host, Dr. Dina Bennett, well known ethnomusicologist and Executive Director of The American Jazz Museum, on a journey into the stories behind the art. SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> Juicing Up the Jazz District with Chris Goode: The Rhythmic Rise of Ruby Jean's Juicery Description: In this episode, host Dr. Dina Bennett, sits down with Chris Goode, the owner of Ruby Jean's Juicery, to discuss the inspiring story behind his business. Goode shares how his late grandmother, Ruby Jean, inspired him to start the juicery in her honor, with the goal of making healthy living more accessible and approachable in urban community. The podcast episode explores the significance of the Troost Ave location and Goode’s passion for educating the community, particularly children, about the importance of nutrition and the parallels between the improvisational nature of jazz and his entrepreneurial approach. SUBSCRIBE to the American Jazz Museum YouTube Channel ► https://www.youtube.com/c/americanjazzmuseum SIGN UP for our digital newsletter with updates on programming, live music, and more ► http://eepurl.com/dAe4j5 Press the little bell above to enable NOTIFICATIONS so you don’t miss the latest American Jazz Museum videos. Follow us on FACEBOOK ► https://www.facebook.com/ajazzmuseumkc TWITTER ► https://twitter.com/ajazzmuseumkc INSTAGRAM ► https://www.instagram.com/ajazzmuseumkc SPOTIFY ► https://open.spotify.com/user/5vq93agtrg8h0va9nme1zyj8g?si=8JsZaOOFRsS4x6P8MdBf8A </video> <video> Mastering Musical Discipline: The Secret to Greatness Description: Musician Spotlight: Gerald Dunn on His Journey to Becoming a Jazz Saxophonist #JazzMusician #KansasCity </video> <video> From Apprentice to Jazz Legend Description: Becoming the apprentice of Illinois Jacquet. Wait did you say apprentice? </video>

Contacts and Links

Description

Located in the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District in Kansas City, MO, the American Jazz Museum showcases the sights and sounds of jazz through interactive exhibits and films, the Changing Gallery exhibit space, Horace M. Peterson III Visitors Center, Blue Room jazz club and Gem Theater. Since its inception in 1997, the Museum hosts thousands of students, scholars, musicians and fans of the arts for over 200 performances, education programs, special exhibitions, community events and more each year, providing an opportunity to learn about the legends, honor their legacy, or simply enjoy the sounds of modern day jazz.

The mission of the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City is to celebrate and exhibit the experience of jazz as an original American art form through performance, exhibition, education, and research at one of the country's jazz crossroads – 18th & Vine.

Visit us at americanjazzmuseum.org and follow us on social media for updates on programming, live music, and more.

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