The Jazz Angels

Jazz Angels provides in-school, after school and weekend jazz education programming aimed at children ages 9-17 from diverse backgrounds and varying musical ability. Our model connects students with their cultural heritage though easy to learn personalized arrangements with many opportunities for improvisation. Students learn the history and legacy of jazz as a uniquely American art form and the people who have made the music great. Our programs are largely targeted at underserved communities and highlight music reflective of those communities. Jazz Angels low teacher to student ratio combined with nurturing rehearsals and performances ensures all students gain an increased level confidence and personal satisfaction.

Our services include programs for Long Beach School middle schools; Rising Tide (an education center for underserved downtown Long Beach children), classes for the United Cambodian Community program and weekend rehearsals at our studio. We plan a variety of youth performances at local music scenes and several Long Beach parks.
We partner to provide special performances for charitable organizations such as Long Beach VA hospital, Jewish and Family Children Services, Miller Children's hospital, Young Horizons and our Port of Long Beach performance and education program, Support the Port which educates underserved children on LB Port employment opportunities.

Jazz Angels has been proactive to create interactive, on-line programming to try to relieve some of the stresses our youth face missing 'in-person' contact during the pandemic. Over the past year, we have found that while the ability to play together in a virtual band does not replace in-person contact, this interaction with peers goes a long way to help.

Testimonials

When COVID-19 caused all of us to shelter in place, Jazz Angels staff arranged online rehearsals, used dropbox to deliver music and playback tracks and sent emails teaching how to record at home. With weekly announcements, program information, jazz history and community jazz events, they have kept jazz alive and our children from melting into the couch.
Barb W.

My sister and her husband can't stop raving about you and Albert (and Will), and how amazing you all are!!! You are changing lives and forming personalities!
Kim D.

Thanks, Barry, for such an enriching year for our son as part of the jazz angels. He has learned so much being a part of the group. You have developed something so special. So glad we had the opportunity to learn from you.
Juliette K.

The gift of music begins with an instrument in the hands of young child that will later spark generations of future musicians to further progress, share experiences, and build relationships. It all begins with a horn in the hands of a child, and that is what the Jazz Angels have accomplished in their generous donation of eleven slightly used instruments to our music program.
Randy R.

Hi, Barry!
Our son's seventh grade year was challenging for him. One of the turnarounds for him came through Jazz Angels. He found himself with a group of people who were dedicated to their art, committed to excellence, and most decidedly very cool. The encouragement he received from you was an integral part of his "finding himself", by midsummer he was loving life again; very into his music, and a joy to all of us. He does not need to be reminded to practice but plays for the love of the art! Thanks for your dedication and example to our son, our enthusiasm for the program is boundless.
Joe B.

Our daughter has been selected to perform in the All-State High School Symphony Orchestra in San Jose this week. Well, she learned today (after her all-state chair test) that she has been assigned principal bass! Jazz Angels, though a very different style of music, has helped her to feel more comfortable on her instrument. I honestly don't think she could have earned this honor without the experience she gained from playing with your group. So thank you for giving her the opportunity and for all the great work you do for the kids.
Chris L.