The Rhythm of Columbus
Jazz Society Celebrates 38 Years with Inaugural Fundraiser
The LocaL Staff
In the heart of Columbus, a new rhythm is stirring. For nearly four decades, the Columbus Jazz Society has been the keeper of a timeless legacy, nurturing a community of musicians and fans united by a shared love for America’s quintessential art form.
They’ve brought soulful melodies to our streets and provided a stage for local artists.Their dedication has been a quiet, powerful force, often self-funded by the hard work of its members. Now, as they mark their 38th anniversary, the Society is stepping into a new chapter, one that invites the entire city to join them in a crucial cause.
In an ongoing effort to support its talented musicians and outreach programs, the Columbus Jazz Society is hosting a major fundraising event, a night dedicated to ensuring the artists who have enriched our lives are paid for their talent and passion. It’s a moment to honor the past while investing in a vibrant future.
On a special evening, Friday, November 7, the city will come alive with the sounds of A Jazzy and Classy Classic Weekend. This isn’t just a party; it’s a statement. It’s an opportunity to gather with fellow enthusiasts and newcomers to celebrate the living, breathing art of jazz. The event is intentionally scheduled to coincide with Fountain City Classic Weekend, a time when our city welcomes an influx of visitors. As incoming President and CEO, Z Lawrence explained, the goal is to provide a “classy” and welcoming destination, and a chance to show the cultural richness of Columbus.
The evening’s setting, the award-winning National Infantry Museum, provides the perfect backdrop, its grandeur and historical significance adding an extra layer of sophistication to the festivities.
The evening promises to be a thoughtful blend of tradition and modern flair, a journey through jazz itself. Attendees will be welcomed into the museum at 6 p.m. for a mingling hour, where a smaller ensemble of local jazz musicians will set a warm, intimate tone. This is a chance to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, all while soaking in the ambiance. As the clock nears 7 p.m., the energy will shift as guests are invited into the main hall. Here, the true power of live jazz will take over.
A full 8-piece ensemble, with CJS members including Chris Helms, Luther Smalls, Toney Williams, Miguel Juarez, Roderick Baptiste, and David Morgan will fill the space with a rich, complex sound. This portion of the evening is an educational nod to the roots of the music, a reminder of the standards and improvisational brilliance that define traditional jazz. It’s a chance for the audience to appreciate the art form in its purest sense before transitioning to the modern sounds they know and love.
The transition will culminate in the night’s highly anticipated headlining performance. Taking the stage around 8 p.m., Grammy-nominated R&B singer Karyn White will bring her iconic style and soulful voice to Columbus. Known for her smash hits like “Superwoman,” her performance will be a powerful reflection of the influence of jazz on R&B and a captivating finale to the evening’s musical journey. The event will be guided by hosts, Michael King, station manager at CCG-TV, and Tacara Hemingway, PMHNP-BC Singer-songwriter, ensuring a smooth, laughter-filled evening.
Beyond the performances, this fundraiser has a deeper, more profound purpose. It is the driving force behind a new, reinvigorated mission for the Columbus Jazz Society. Its leadership is committed to raising the bar for local artists, ensuring they are paid a living wage for their talent and dedication.
Proceeds from the event will also fund the Society’s annual scholarship program for aspiring young musicians and a brand new initiative—a musical instrument drive dubbed “Instruments for KIDS.” This program will collect and repair used instruments and provide them, free of charge, to children who wish to learn. It’s a full-circle approach to community service, supporting seasoned artists while inspiring the next generation.
This event is an investment in the cultural fabric of our city. It’s a chance to ensure that jazz doesn’t just survive, but thrives. By coming together, we can give musicians the support they need to continue their craft and inspire a new wave of jazz lovers.
Individual tickets are available for $65.00, while tables can be secured for $450.00. These tickets aren’t just for an evening of entertainment; they’re a direct line to the heart of the Columbus Jazz Society. As a thank you for their support, ticket holders will also receive complimentary access to all of the Columbus Jazz Society’s monthly jam sessions for an entire year. Tickets can be purchased online at getlocaltix.com or in person at The Seed at The Rapids, 1329 Front Avenue, Riverfront in Uptown.
You can also visit columbusjazzsociety.com and follow them on social media at @columbusjazzsociety to stay up-to-date on all of their future endeavors. This is our opportunity to honor a long-standing legacy and build a sustainable future for the music that has given us so much. We hope to see you there, ready to swing, move, and celebrate the enduring spirit of jazz.