About
Jazz Appreciation Month
The mission of the JAM Concert Series is to promote and increase the public’s awareness of the vibrant jazz ecosystem in the Twin Ports, as well as providing opportunities for students and educators from Duluth and beyond to:
- Meet, demonstrate, and share their musical achievements and creativity
- Complement and enhance the teaching, learning, and growing process associated with jazz music
- Foster and promote a lifelong interest in music as a basic human experience
- Provide paid performance opportunities for professional musicians in the Twin Ports
Over the past two years, the JAM Concert Series has been individually organized by Thomas Woytko and executed with the help of the Twin Ports community. Advancing its growth and authenticity, the JAM Concert Series has achieved 501(c)(3) non-profit status as of June 2024.
JAM Concert Series is dedicated to enriching Duluth’s Jazz culture through the annual concert series held in April. Each JAM provides performance opportunities for at least 20 different ensembles at various venues across the Twin Ports including Duluth Cider, Lake Superior Brewing, Dovetail Cafe, and Northern Waters Smokehaus, fostering exposure and appreciation for Duluth’s vibrant jazz scene. Each week during Jazz Appreciation Month, Twin Ports audiences can attend two unique concerts. One concert features a small jazz ensemble and an inclusive jam session, inviting participation from students and community members. The other concerts feature larger ensembles from local area schools and professional performing groups.
$10,000+ Paid to Artists
17 Concerts Hosted
150+ Students Impacted
Testimonials
The JAM Concert Series not only has showcased the talents of local professional musicians but has also provided an area for students and emerging artists to hone their craft. High school and college bands have had the opportunity to perform alongside seasoned professionals, creating a nurturing environment for young talent. Some feedback we received from last year’s follow-up form includes, “Everything about the event was done well. The host venue and set up was good, the personal host was good, the communication was good, etc.”, “ I’m optimistic that JAM can help professionals support their livelihoods via the quality live performance opportunities that the Series provides.” and “I thought it was well-done and gave professionals and students alike a great opportunity to celebrate the music they are so passionate about. Giving people a chance to come see quality live Jazz performances can continue to bolster the idea that Jazz can do well in Duluth.” This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission, as it offers a real-world experience that is both educational and inspirational.
