On Wednesday, October 16th, the Los Angeles Music and Arts School Jazz Ensemble had a special evening concert held at the East Los Angeles Library in the Gloria Molina Community Room. The entertaining evening had student artists perform a collection of songs Latin Jazz, Big Band Jazz, Bebop, and Swing ranging from the early 30s to today. The ensemble was lead by teaching artist Dr. Isaac Lopez.
Families and children listened to jazz favorites with songs from Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Consuelo Velázquez, Cole Porter, Randy Newman and many more. Light refreshments were served as a courtesy of Los Amigos of the East Los Angeles Library to those in attendance. Attendees were encouraged by the library staff to check out some of the books, films, and music to learn more about Jazz artists and musicians. Music brought the community together and emphasized the positive impact of the arts for today’s youth in the eastside.
The Jazz Ensemble were welcomed with support and praised for their talent. The East LA Library Librarian Manager, Martin Delgado welcomed LAMusArt at Community members enjoy an evening of jaz
“East LA has always had incredible talent. It is amazing to see that continue with our youth. I am honored to welcome the LAMusArt Jazz Ensemble to our East LA Library,” states Martin Delgado the Library Manager at East LA Library.
“I’m a drummer, so music is my life. It’s important to have music because it continues our traditions and expands opportunities for our youth. For college a lot of these kids if they continue how they are they will go far places. It’s important to support and grow their talents and skills.” Gabriel & Lydia Medina.
Jazz Ensemble performer and LAMusArt student artist Matthew De La Torre, age 23, expressed his appreciation for the program and the chance to showcase the group’s talents to the community. “I enjoyed performing out in the East LA community, I hope we can do more outreach events. It is a great opportunity to show the Jazz Ensemble and recruit new members!” Matthew describes.
The Jazz Ensemble is part of LAMusArt’s tuition-free music ensemble program which is made possible with support from the Colburn Foundation, the California Arts Council, and by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture. T
hese programs offer students in the East Los Angeles community and the surrounding community the opportunity to receive individualized training designed to build skills, discipline, and appreciation for music and the arts.
In case you missed the chance to see these talented student artists perform, you can catch them again at LAMusArt’s 5th annual Winter Benefit Dinner presented by the Young Professionals Advisory Board on Saturday December 7, 2019. Enjoy the festivities, food, drinks, and student performances as we celebrate the season’s holidays on the Eastside! For more details on event and ticket information please visit LAMusArt.org/WinterBenefit.