As we come close to wrapping up 2020, I thought it would be timely to reach out to everyone here on Thanksgiving to express to you the gratitude I and our JOI team have for the tremendous support you’ve provided us so far this year. This tumultuous time called for a renewed focus on music and specifically jazz as a truly American art form. One which not only tells the story of America, but reflects the history as well as the present times of hardships and challenges, triumphs and tribulations. I’m inspired by this because of the feedback we’ve received from our students who’ve said the many programs we’ve been offering them throughout the spring and summer and now into fall have given them a light in their darkness and a sense of strength and unity at a time of great unrest.
But this isn’t a solo effort. This note of gratitude on behalf of these outstanding kids goes out to all who are helping us “Make A Difference!” Gary Cordell, our Dir. of Programming, Donny Thompson, Exec. Dir., our Board of Directors Curt Miller, Juliana McRae, Daniel Philippus, Richard Boulware, Nancy Brune, Emeritus Board Members Renee Rampton and Debra Rampton Rivkin, all of our professional mentor musicians, our social media team Arianna and Amy, my colleagues at Jazz at Lincoln Center, our friends at CCSD and UNLV, our JOI Advisors, and so many more. And of course a huge thank you to all those who’ve given generously all through the year and especially now in our annual “JOI of Giving” fundraising and sponsorship campaign.
JOI is a success because of each and every one of you. And for you and your time, talent, and treasure, I am eternally thankful.
Blessings to all of you, your family, and friends for a safe, healthy, and Happy Thanksgiving!
In the Spirit of Swing,
Kenny Rampton
