More than 500 students in Harbor Country experienced the transformative power of jazz thanks to a grant that came from a donor advised fund at Berrien Community Foundation.
The grant supported the Acorn Center for the Performing Arts in bringing JazzReach — a multi-day, nationally respected music education nonprofit — to Three Oaks. Bridgman, New Buffalo and River Valley students from kindergarten through high school didn’t just hear jazz — they learned its history, felt its rhythms, and saw how it shaped the American music scene. They explored its roots in social change, its role in cultural expression, and its enduring influence on modern music. And they experienced it all for free.
Special to this year’s experience was an art project that encouraged students to translate the jazz they were hearing into shapes and lines that reflected the emotion and movement of jazz, much like what Jean-Michel Basquiat did in the 1980s as he became one of the foremost figures of the Neo-Expressionist movement. The students’ art was then put on display at the free community concert performed by professional jazz musicians and students.
Cora, a River Valley elementary student, said she drew inspiration from Basquiat as she drew drums and crowns.
“This program is amazing; I learned that art is like another form of music,” Cora said.
“This is exactly the kind of opportunity BCF and our generous donors want to invest in,” said BCF President Lisa Cripps-Downey. “When we support programs like this, we’re helping students connect with the arts in meaningful ways — ways that build confidence, creativity and community.”
BCF has supported this program in previous years through its For Good Grant program. For three days, JazzReach’s ensemble — the Metta Quintet — worked side-by-side with students and educators to deliver a residency program that was as immersive as it was inspiring.
“We rely on funding to make programs like this possible,” said Ashley Magnus, The Acorn executive director. “In particular, Berrien Community Foundation is essential to making sure this event continues to be free for students to participate in and free for the public to attend. Every aspect of this program is at no cost … That is not possible without funding.”
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