During the lovely month of May,  I had the sincere pleasure of leading a “play-shop” on Benny Goodman along with Sherman Irby lead alto saxophonist with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. This event took place after school and was designed to prepare teachers for the upcoming concerts honoring Benny Goodman. These fabulous teachers will be bringing their students to Jazz at Lincoln Center during the month of June. We had a great time exploring the Swing era and its impact on America and the rest of the world.

Sherman Irby preparing for our seminar on Benny Goodman with a print of Romare Bearden’s Jammin at the Savoy, along with a Smithsonian Institute commemorative poster, and vibrant artwork from my Holliswood School Kids for Coltrane class in the background.~ Sherman collaborating with you was an honor and a lot of fun!

New York teachers playing King Porter’s Stomp under the direction of Sherman Irby. Photos by yours truly…What a great group of teachers having a memorable time improvising…the discussion was very illuminating and thought provoking. I also must thank Samantha Samuels and Joanna Massey from the education department at JALC…~Ladies you are  part of such an incredible team and so very supportive.