All That Jazz
April is Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM), and 2017 is the centennial of The First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald. Women have made waves as vocalists, composers, and instrumentalists since the genre came into existence in the late 19th century. As is true in other fields, women in the world of jazz are often less well-known than their male counterparts.
Here’s what we’re doing today:
Take some time to learn about jazz greats by visiting the National Museum of American History, on Tuesday, April 18. Docents will present fascinating objects related to women in jazz . Can’t make it? Watch a conversation by the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, America’s first integrated, female big band as they talk about their time on the stage. If you’re itching to hear some good music, there are plenty of live jazz shows in and around the nation’s capital. Take a gander at the DC Jazz calendar and support the women of jazz’s present.
Sample Tweets:
I’m taking a trip to @amhistorymuseum to learn about the legacy of women in jazz. s.si.edu/1BMnUOO #our100days
My favorite female jazz vocalist/musician is _______. #our100days
I’m going to a live jazz performance by ____. Check out her awesome music! #our100days