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Jazz Power Initiative, WBGO plan collaboration and May 14 syncopated celebration honoring local jazz leaders
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Summary
Dr. Eli Yimann of Jazz Power Initiative and WBGO president and CEO Stephen Williams described a partnership to bring WBGO’s resources to Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, and previewed the Syncopated Celebration on May 14, hosted by Christian McBride with honorees Lakisha Benjamin and City Council member Carmen De La Rosa.
Dr. Eli Yimann, managing and artistic director of the Inwood‑based Jazz Power Initiative, and Stephen Williams, president and CEO of WBGO, told BronxNet they are forming a partnership to strengthen jazz education and community engagement in Uptown Manhattan and the Bronx.
Williams described WBGO as “more than just a radio station,” saying the organization operates as an arts‑and‑culture institution with global reach. He told the host the station is celebrating its 47th anniversary and is planning a move into a new $12,000,000 facility intended to expand WBGO’s programming and community presence.
Yimann said the partnership will connect young people with WBGO’s resources — including streaming and podcast platforms — and bring the station into direct programming collaborations in the borough. The effort includes youth ensemble performances, artist mentorship and opportunities for students to meet established performers.
The guests previewed the 2026 Syncopated Celebration on May 14 at the Leonard Nimoy Thalia at Symphony Space (2537 Broadway at West 95th Street). Christian McBride is scheduled to host; honorees include saxophonist Lakisha Benjamin and City Council member Carmen De La Rosa, who will receive a community arts champion award. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at jazzpower.org.
Why it matters: The partnership aims to preserve jazz’s cultural legacy while expanding access for young audiences in historically underserved neighborhoods; Williams said the move and programming investments are designed to broaden that reach.
Practical details: Limited tickets remain for the May 14 celebration; the guests directed listeners to jazzpower.org for tickets and sponsorship information.
