Jazz Arts Project Celebrates Its 20th Year

Red Bank, NJ — 2025 - Celebrating 20 years of musical innovation and community impact, Jazz Arts Project is proud to announce a series of celebratory events and performances commemorating its landmark anniversary. Founded in 2006, the organization has been a supporter of jazz education and performance, dedicated to nurturing musical talent and appreciating jazz’s rich cultural heritage.

This special anniversary will be marked by a series of performances for International Jazz Appreciation Month, culminating in a gala performance and fundraiser on April 30 at Red Bank’s Triumph Restaurant & Brewery. The evening promises enchanting performances by renowned jazz artists, program alumni, and special guests. Attendees will also witness the presentation of the annual “Jazz Arts Hero” awards, honoring those who have made a significant impact on jazz arts and/or have been instrumental in supporting the nonprofit's enduring success. This year's recipients are community leader, Author,  journalist, playwright, educator Gilda Rogers, and venerated jazz musician Warren Vaché. With a fitting theme this year of the Jazz Age, and the Roaring 20's, the event will be a fun elegant evening like a Great Gatsby style party.

The fundraiser will be preceded by Three consecutive Wednesday Jazz Café nights beginning April 9th with Guitar Virtuoso Stephane Wrembel, April 16th with the Bruce Williams Quintet, and April 23rd with the Behn Gellice Quintet.

Throughout its history, Jazz Arts Project has been pivotal in launching educational programs targeting young musicians. In addition to the year-round Jazz Arts Academy for High School Students, and free summer music camps for middle school students, the organization produces live professional concerts and events including Jazz in the Park summer concerts in Riverside Gardens Park and the Westside Music Series, the Summer Jazz Café, The Joys of Jazz Holiday Concert and other events throughout the year. These efforts have not only brought amazing music to audiences throughout the region but have also cultivated a new generation of jazz lovers and musicians. All to honor this great music and to enrich our communities.

“As the birthplace of Count Basie, we in Red Bank are thrilled to play a role in promoting America’s true contribution to the music world. I also know how impactful a positive experience in learning to play an instrument is, and how it can really change a life.”

– Joe Muccioli, Founder and Artistic Director of Jazz Arts Project

This year, Jazz Arts Project will enhance its offerings with expanded workshops and school partnerships, aiming to reach a broader population and provide comprehensive musical training from foundational skills to advanced performance techniques. These programs are supported through collaborations with local schools and funded by grants, individual donations, and fundraising events like the upcoming gala.

Jazz Arts Project continues to thrive on the support of its community and volunteers. We encourage those who cherish world-class musical performance and music education to join us in advancing this cause. Volunteers and donors can make a profound difference in the lives of young musicians by supporting our programs that shape the future of jazz.

Join us for a memorable evening of music and celebration on April 30. Save the dates in april for more unforgettable experiences. For more information and to purchase tickets for any of the April events, click HERE.

For more information about Jazz Arts Project, its mission, or to get involved, please visit www.jazzartsproject.org. 

About Jazz Arts Project

Jazz Arts Project is dedicated to the power of jazz music to unite, inspire, and educate. Founded in 2006 by Artistic Director Joe Muccioli, the organization has committed itself to preserving, presenting, and celebrating jazz, utilizing it as a tool for positive change. Its diverse array of programs spans across age groups and backgrounds, fostering not just musicianship but also a lifelong appreciation for this quintessential American art form. Looking towards the future, Jazz Arts Project remains committed to expanding its impact, nurturing new talent, and ensuring that jazz continues to enrich lives for generations to come. For more about its mission, programs, and ways to support its endeavors, visit www.jazzartsproject.org.