Exploration of Social Change through the history and traditions of Jazz
5th-7th Grade Students
Jazz For Freedom is an engaging educational program that celebrates Jazz as a vital branch of Black American Music, embodying the rich tapestry of our society and the ongoing work towards social justice. This unique program is designed to supplement the Philadelphia School District’s English Language Arts and Social Studies curricula, integrating the arts, culture, geography, history, and civics to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
Serving over 5,000 students in grades 5 through 7, Jazz For Freedom not only educates but also inspires. The program’s highlight is a free student concert held at the Perelman Theater in the Kimmel Center. This concert is a vibrant showcase featuring musicians, dancers, and poets who take students on a journey through Jazz history—from its birth in New Orleans to the flourishing Jazz scene in Philadelphia today.
To deepen the educational impact, Jazz For Freedom includes over 300 interactive pre-show and post-show workshops. These workshops are led by skilled Teaching Artists who visit classrooms to foster a deeper understanding of the topics. Through these engaging sessions, students explore the cultural significance of Jazz and its role in shaping our collective narrative.
Registration opens at the end of August 2024.
Performance Dates
- January 21, 2025 at 12:00 PM
- January 22, 2025 at 10:30 AM & 12:00 PM
- January 28, 2025 at 10:30 AM & 12:00 PM
- February 4, 2025 at 10:30 AM & 12:00 PM
- February 6, 2025 10:30 AM & 12:00 PM
- March 4, 2025 at 10:30 AM