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The Jazz Legacy Project

Connecting Jazz and American Culture: Past, Present, and Future

What is the Jazz Legacy Project?

How did John Coltrane influence hip-hop? Why is Billie Holiday's voice so unique? How did Dave Brubeck force pro-civil rights policy in the South?

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Created in 2015 after an epiphany Justin Varnes had while teaching a college Jazz History course, the Jazz Legacy Project combines education with entertainment. Each show features compelling stories about the artists and their influence on American music and culture woven in between authentic performances of popular jazz songs designed to engage casual audiences.

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"It's a jazz concert and music appreciation class in one...oh, and they play their behinds off, too!" - Tamara Fuller, Velvet Note

Featured Shows

Jazz Legacy Project presents Billie Holiday - God Bless the Child
04:23
Justin Varnes

Jazz Legacy Project presents Billie Holiday - God Bless the Child

Featuring Actress/Vocalist Maria Howell, come hear Holiday's inspiring story her iconic music while learning about Holiday's importance both on and off the stage.
John Coltrane: The Beauty of Struggle
02:56
Justin Varnes

John Coltrane: The Beauty of Struggle

'Trane's music directly shaped R&B, Soul, and eventually Hip-hop. Learn how & why, while also being inspired by his battle to overcome early childhood trauma and missed opportunities to create some of the most indelible and important music of the 20th century.
Special Project: Classical Meets Jazz
02:29
Justin Varnes

Special Project: Classical Meets Jazz

A Special Project, combining great classical pieces with jazz: Wagner, Mozart, Ravel, and Stravinsky meets jazz. Also included is a small-group version of Rhapsody in Blue and the Ellington/Strayhorn version of the Nutcracker Suite.

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