Friday June 17,2022, Las Vegas, NV
Jazz Outreach Initiative partnered with China Hudson at the West Las Vegas Library Theater to produce "Miles, Mingus, & Monk" with the JOI Septet and celebrated headliner and GRAMMY® nominated vocalist, Clint Holmes.
This free "Concerts for the Community" event was supported by The Music Performance Trust Fund, The Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, and Music & Arts. The septet featured musicians Miguel Rodriguez (Alto Sax), Wayne de Silva (Tenor Sax), Jorge Machain (Trumpet), JOI's Las Vegas Youth Jazz Orchestra alumnus Ilai Macaggi from The Julliard School (Trombone), Dr. Molly Redfield (Bass), Larry Aberman (Drums), and Musical Director Bill Zappia (Piano).
Midway through the concert, Jazz Outreach Initiative presented Monaco Title I Middle School student, Tony Ramirez to the audience as its newest "Jazz Routes" recipient. JOI's Executive Director, Donny Thompson, has partnered with Music & Arts (America's largest instrument retailer) to provide free brand name music instruments to select students in CCSD. JOI's sponsors and donors pay for students to receive a full year of private music lessons, and estimated value of $1,500 per child. An incoming 8th grader at Monaco Title I Middle School, Tony will join the school's band program as a trumpeter under the great direction of Mr. Yolandus Douglas. Joined on stage with Tony was his mom Jessica and little brother because music is a gift to the entire family and the community. William Davenport, manager at Music & Arts was pleased to hand Tony his new trumpet.
JOI welcomes large and small donations to help support this life changing program for students who lack the resources to learn a new instrument.