Madison Jazz Society requests $5000 for educational jazz outreach program

On May 1, 2025, the Wisconsin Arts Board convened to review applications for the FY26 Creative Communities - Arts Education Grant, focusing on the impact of arts programming in education. The meeting highlighted the importance of artistic expression and its long-term benefits for students, particularly through hands-on experiences in music education.

One notable application came from the Madison Jazz Society, which requested $5,000 to support its Discover Jazz Outreach program. This initiative aims to provide jazz and improvisational experiences to students in grades 6 through 12 during regular class time. The funding will primarily cover artistic fees and services, with a portion allocated for operational expenses. The program has shown responsiveness to participant feedback, leading to increased collaboration among music disciplines, including orchestra, choir, and composition. This evolution in programming is seen as a significant step in engaging more students in jazz music.

Panel members praised the Madison Jazz Society for its effective documentation of student engagement, noting that video recordings of students interacting with jazz musicians effectively convey the program's impact. Suggestions were made for enhancing documentation methods, such as using higher-quality audio recordings to better capture the musical experiences.

The discussion underscored the importance of integrating various musical disciplines into arts education, with panelists expressing enthusiasm for the inclusion of often-overlooked areas like orchestra and choir in jazz programming. This approach not only enriches the educational experience but also fosters a more inclusive environment for all students interested in music.

As the meeting concluded, the panel recognized the potential of arts education grants to enhance community engagement and artistic development among youth. The Wisconsin Arts Board will continue to evaluate applications and support initiatives that promote creativity and collaboration in educational settings.