SFJAZZ Honors Black History Month

Selma to Montgomery march, March 25, 1965

In 2015 there is much to celebrate, yet there is still much to be done as we mark 50 years in the quest for social justice and equity. In the struggle for civil rights, music has long played a critical role in defining our nation's identity, and this February, SFJAZZ Education honors the soundtrack of the African American experience with several performances and workshops. We invite you to help us mark Black History Month at the SFJAZZ Center, and around San Francisco, with these special events:

18th Annual Bringing the Noise for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - Monday, January 19, 2015, 7pm * Each year, a few of the SFJAZZ High School All-Stars participate in this lively and moving tribute to Dr. King's legacy alongside our partners at Youth Speaks, when young Bay Area spoken word artists and musicians showcase their original work and creativity, and give voice to their concerns in today's world. This community program takes place at the Nourse Auditorium right across the street from the SFJAZZ Center at 275 Hayes Street, at the corner of Franklin St.

Sounds of Resistance: Tracing the African American Experience - Koret Discover Jazz Series, Tuesdays February 3 - 24, 2015 at the AAACC, 762 Fulton St., San Francisco * SFJAZZ is thrilled to partner with the African American Art & Culture Complex (AAACC) as we host our critically-acclaimed jazz appreciation series in this historic Western Addition venue. Vocalist, educator and award-winning bandleader Linda Tillery curates this in-depth look at musical activism at the root of the African American experience. Joining her for this lecture-performance program will be some of the Bay Area's celebrated jazz and blues artists, including the Cultural Heritage Choir, Terrie Odabi, Tammy Hall and many more! The program takes place from 7-8:30pm at the AAACC, 762 Fulton St., S.F. Limited free parking is available.

Harriet Tubman & The Blues: SFJAZZ Family Matinee with the Marcus Shelby Orchestra - Saturday, February 14, 11am-12pm, Miner Auditorium, SFJAZZ Center * Bassist, bandleader and composer Marcus Shelby presents his critically-acclaimed work tracing the legacy of freedom fighter Harriet Tubman in this exciting and educational family program. Joining the Shelby Orchestra is dynamic vocalist Faye Carol. Following the concert, Shelby and members of the Orchestra will lead a Family Workshop and blues jam in the Joe Henderson Lab from 12:15-1:15pm, which is FREE to matinee ticket-holders. Sign-ups take place in the lobby prior to the performance. This program is generously supported by PG&E.

For more information on the many exciting SFJAZZ Education programs for spring 2015, please visit our website at sfjazz.org/education. We look forward to seeing you at the SFJAZZ Center, and in our neighborhood!

--Rebeca