On the heels of an extended tribute to Wes Montgomery at this year’s Indy Jazz Fest (Sept. 15-24), the spotlight swings to sprouting stars on the region’s jazz family tree. Live jazz performances will take place on the evening of Thursday, November 17, by established pros and top jazz students from area universities.
The student musicians—each of whom will receive a $1,000 IJF scholarship—will perform alongside the pros in the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation’s annual Jazz Legacy Showcase. Scholarships will go to students at four area colleges and universities.
Also taking place November, 17, the foundation will honor the 2016 Jazz Educator of the Year. The 2015 honoree was Dr. Marion Thomas “Mo” Trout, professor of music and director of the jazz program at Purdue University. Emcee for the evening is Doug Housemeyer of WICR 88.7 FM.
“The Jazz Legacy Showcase is an annual highlight for music lovers and those who treasure Central Indiana’s cultural heritage,” said IJF president Katherine Nagler. “We get to hear the best up-and-coming players – our scholarship recipients – play alongside the artists who have inspired and mentored them. We’re excited to be at the Indiana Landmarks Center for the first time, and to unveil a special creation by Rita Spalding, commissioned by the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation.” Spalding is an award-winning painter whose love for jazz has inspired several memorable works.
