OUR VALUES IN ACTION
We Strive to Keep the Tradition Alive
A BIT ABOUT US
Continuing the Storied Legacy of Jazz in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s long and vibrant jazz history is legendary. Tony King, Manty Ellis, Berkeley Fudge, Buddy Montgomery, Gerald Cannon, David Hazeltine, and others have led the way. Now, it’s our turn.
The Milwaukee Jazz Institute was created by dedicated jazz musicians and supporters passionate about preserving this music and passing it on for future generations to develop.
By collaborating with other organizations that share our vision, we believe this music can become an even more significant factor in shaping, revitalizing, and uniting our city. We look forward to being a catalyst for the furthering of jazz in Milwaukee for many generations to come.


EDUCATION
Be A Part of the Tradition
The Milwaukee Jazz Institute is committed to preserving, promoting, and advancing jazz in the greater Milwaukee area. We recognize that this music is passed from one generation to the next. The nurturing and mentoring of musicians of all ages and bringing them into the jazz community is the goal of the MJI artists, who have dedicated their lives to the study and performance of jazz.
PERFORMANCE
Be Inspired
Music performance inspires people and can bring about positive change in our community. The We Six ensemble, MJI's faculty, and guest artists present world-class jazz to the community in an effort to expand and diversify audiences. Because we believe performance is essential to music education, we take our students out of the classroom into the real world to perform in top jazz venues and create opportunities for them to hear and learn from master musicians.


OPPORTUNITY
Learn and Share the Art Form
Diversity and inclusion are always front of mind at MJI. We find that talent is equally distributed; therefore, we strive to make sure opportunity is as well.
COMMUNITY
Join Our Community
We recognize that the vitality of jazz is rooted in shared experience. At Milwaukee Jazz Institute, we are committed to cultivating a community where individuals of all ages and backgrounds are welcomed, respected, and engaged. Through ensemble work, educational programs, and public performances, we foster an environment in which collaboration is not only encouraged but essential to artistic and personal growth.




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