JEN Conference returns to New Orleans

The Jazz Education Network (JEN) is set to bring four days of jazz-focused panel discussions, live music, research presentations and clinics back to the Crescent City from Jan. 4 – 7, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency. The conference — which features performances by New Orleans Musicians Union members including Delfeayo Marsalis — also features a symposium on Wednesday, Jan. 3, aimed at bringing together members of the jazz industry to discuss the state of the music business and brainstorm about ways those who contribute to jazz can help sustain the music and genre in years to come.

Founded in 2008 in the wake of IAJE’s demise, JEN operates as a non-profit “dedicated to building the jazz arts community by advancing education, promoting performance and developing new audiences,” according to the organization’s website.

Part of the way the way group executes that mission is by putting young musicians in mentoring situations with more experienced players. JEN also provides scholarship opportunities and other education initiatives such as fellowships, grants and a showcase series for young composers — efforts that will be supported by a fundraising performance new to the program this year.

On Jan. 6 at the Hyaatt Regency New Orleans, the organization presents its first annual JEN Conference Scholarship Concert, featuring the Jeff Coffin & Caleb Chapman “Inside of the Outside Project” featuring Branford Marsalis, Randy Brecker, Kirk Whalum, Victor Wooten, Rashawn Ross, Stanton Moore, David Paich, Johnny Vidacovich, Tony Dagradi, John Beasley and The Crescent Super Band. Tickets for the show range from $25 for registered conference attendees to $85 for non-registered conference attendees.

For ticketing, registration and other information, please visit JEN’s website.