Why Jazz Composition Matters in an Improvised Art Form

A dive into this South Arts-directed national initiative that creates new ways for artists to tour and plan residencies throughout the U.S. Learn about getting a grant to bring your music (and band) to new audiences, with an emphasis on mixing rural, lesser-known and alternative presenters with dates at traditional jazz venues. Moderator: Sara Donnelly. Panelists: Jaimie Branch; Orrin Evans; Lisa Giordano; Rory Trainor.

This panel features a conversation with musicians who work on and off the bandstand for social change and activism. Moderator: Larry Blumenfeld. Panelists: Regina Carter; Samora Pinderhughes; Marc Ribot.

This panel will review how jazz radio is evolving to remain important to music discovery and artist development, and how radio stations can better position themselves through expansion into digital to be the trusted brand for jazz music discovery in their markets. Moderator: Ed Trefzger (JazzWeek). Panelists: Tessil Collins (WGBH); Arturo Gomez (KUVO); Lydia Liebman (Lydia Liebman Promotions); Derrick Lucas (WGMC); Kayonne Riley (WUCF).

In an age when media outlets have less space for listings, it is increasingly important to rethink how we all approach gig publicity and pre-show/pre-festival promotion. This session will provide specific insight into how the modern-day musician or presenter should approach marketing gigs to current and potential fans.   Moderator: Matt Merewitz (Fully Altered Media) Panelists: Marquis Hill; Sydney Hill; Zooey T. Jones (Jazz at Lincoln Center); Adrienne Stortz (Miller Theatre)

Become the master of your own financial well-being. Avoid the common mistakes and get the facts about your long-term financial success as an artist or arts professional. Get valuable tips on smart financial planning, tax saving tips for musicians, the power of smart saving & protection strategies, pension maximization tips, and learn how to take-action now for an even more successful financial future. Panelists: Darren Sussman (IFWA); Kristi Gomez (IFWA Coach).

Bandleaders offer the nuts and bolts of getting a group on the road without the condition of being signed to a major booking agency or management team. Covering the how, why and when of contacting promoters of festivals, clubs, performance venues and jazz societies, as well as how to take advantage of crowdfunding and grant support. Moderator: Michelle Taylor (Passion Music Group)  Panelists: Jamie Baum; Javon Jackson; Andy Milne; Lilly Schwartz (SFJAZZ); Svetlana

Through the thoughtful contributions of an accomplished, diverse panel of prominent jazz musicians/composers/producers, the vital and often under-appreciated role of the composer/arranger will be examined and discussed specifically with its importance to driving audience development & artist definition.  Moderator: Chuck Owen (ISJAC). Panelists: Darcy James Argue; Christine Jensen; Rufus Reid; Ryan Truesdell.

Jazz artists and artists/curators from different art forms – such as dance, drama and opera – talk about the rich artistic opportunities (and challenges) presented by cross-genre collaboration. Moderator: Amy Niles (WBGO) Panelists: Uri Caine; Kurt Elling; Jamar Roberts (Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater); Ted Rosenthal; Damien Sneed; Janis Burley Wilson (Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival/August Wilson African American Cultural Center)

The concept of all female groups has experienced a surge over the past 10 years, but nevertheless has a conflicted relationship with all stakeholders in the jazz world and beyond. This session will discuss the pros and cons of exclusive ensembles from social, cultural, musical, psychological, educational perspectives. Moderator: Katie Simon Panelists: Jane Bunnett; Mayra Casales; Monika Herzig; Sherrie Maricle; Helen Sung; Alexa Tarantino

Trumpeters talk about the music and legacy of Armstrong and preview rare recordings from the legendary trumpeter. Moderators: Jon Faddis and Ricky Riccardi (Louis Armstrong House Museum). Panelists: Summer Camargo; Sean Jones; Wynton Marsalis; Bria Skonberg.