With support from the California Arts Council, Living Jazz will sustain RootED (formerly the Living Jazz Children’s Project), a culturally responsive music education program serving 1,500 TK–12 students across 21 public schools in Alameda and West Contra Costa Counties. Following a period of substantial growth (14 to 21 schools), this support will help ensure program continuity and sustainability. RootED provides free, year-round instruction in choir, rhythm, movement, and vocal expression, led by diverse teaching artists who reflect the students they serve. Over half of partner schools are in the lowest two quartiles of the Healthy Places Index, and many higher-HPI schools enroll students from low-HPI neighborhoods, with up to 76% qualifying as low income. CAC funds will support teaching artist and staff compensation, curriculum development, and consistent program delivery that fosters creativity, confidence, and belonging.
“In the Name of Love” is the East Bay’s only non-denominational musical tribute honoring Dr. King Jr. Launched in 2002, the annual event celebrates the talents of local artists in a themed program highlighting social justice and has showcased 80+ prominent solo guest artists, commissioned and premiered new works, provide a platform for first-time collaborations, attracted sell-out audiences of ~1300 and celebrated the cultural, racial and ethnic diversity of Oakland’s public school system through performances by the Living Jazz Children’s Project choir. On hiatus since a 2021 online concert during the pandemic, ITNOL was re-imagined in 2024, with the 20th anniversary concert featuring the musical theme of Stevie Wonder and his activism, a sold-out much larger venue, and a larger roster of artists representing Oakland’s various communities of color.
Living Jazz RootED (formerly The Living Jazz Children’s Project) is a free in-school performing arts education and performance program serving ~1,200 Oakland and West Contra Costa public elementary, middle, and high school students. Created in 2005, the program includes choral, vocal, and rhythm music components and a dance component that builds fundamental music and dance skills while teaching students about cultural diversity and social justice.
Jazz Camp West is a nationally acclaimed jazz immersion program known for its culturally diverse curriculum; multi-generational, racially diverse student body; supportive, collaborative environment; renowned faculty artists; and spectacular outdoor setting. The eight-day program is now entering its 41st season and serves ~250 people ages 15 and up.
Jam Camp West is a supportive, nurturing seven-day alternative, sleep-away music camp for youth, modeled after Jazz Camp. LJ debuted the program in 2008 to serve youth with and without prior musical training. It features diverse urban-influenced contemporary music styles (spoken word, Afro-Cuban percussion, steeldrum, songwriting, ukulele, beatbox) in a beautiful redwood setting for ~125 youth ages 10-17.

