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African American History Education through Jazz Performances

Exalt Entertainment Group recognized as a leading jazz booking agency and premiering spoken word artists nationally. Today announced that in honor of African American History Month they are now scheduling jazz performances events that combine the education of African American History. The live jazz presentations demonstrate and explain the art form, emphasizing the history and culture.

"The role of African Americans and culture is central to the continuously unfolding history of Jazz. Educators that are working musicians who studied and played with the greats are a real plus, " stated Brenda Bradley, Exalt Entertainment Group Representative. "Events that combine performance with educational activities like interactive lectures or multi-media presentations bring the history alive for people."

Exalt Entertainment Group artists and educators include New Orleans' native daughter, Courtney Bryan, pianist, composer, Columbia University Doctoral candidate and faculty fellow whose live performances include the Ford Detroit International Jazz Festival and New Orleans Heritage Festival. Bryan has worked with greats such as Gerald Wilson, Curtis Fuller and Louis Hayes.

Marcus Belgrave, trumpeter, composer and former Ray Charles band member has taught and mentored many contemporary stand-outs, including saxophonist James Carter, violinist, Regina Carter, and pianist, Geri Allen. An Oberlin University professor and founder of the Detroit Jazz Musician's Co-Op, and Jazz Development Workshop, he is a noted educator and performer.

Winard Harper, internationally renowned drummer and faculty member of the Kennedy Center's Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program has worked with legends such as Dexter Gordon, Betty Carter, Ray Bryant, Jimmy Heath, and Dr. Billy Taylor. Co-founder of the acclaimed Harper Brothers and leader of the Winard Harper Sextet, Harper has offered master classes, clinics and workshops nationally for students from elementary through college.

Theo Croker, trumpeter, composer, Oberlin University graduate and grandson of legendary bandleader Doc Cheatham has conducted educational workshops at Oberlin and Stanford University, as well as K-12 students. Notable appearances include the JVC Jazz Festival, Windsor Jazz Festival and Aspen Snow Festival sharing the stage with artists such as Louis Hayes, Clark Terry and Frank Wess.

To schedule a jazz performance for African American History Month please contact Brenda Bradley at 313.657.2750.



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