Boys Town North Florida celebrated the start of Black History Month by welcoming Florida State University’s Jazz Ensemble to campus. The event was designed to expose youth to jazz, a music genre that originated in the African American communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The jazz quintet educated Boys Town youth about how jazz originated from blues and made ties to how the music influences contemporary artists of today. Youth were treated to pieces by notable jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong and Miles Davis.
Lawrence Turner, Florida State student and jazz musician said, “Being at Boys Town to perform means that I am giving back what I’ve learned. As a young person, listening to other people inspired me to become better at my instrument. I’m very glad to give back to people who deserve it. The youth had great questions, and I could tell they were really listening.”
After the performance, youth and music enthusiasts approached the ensemble for advice on how to improve their musical talent.
Boys Town North Florida wishes to thank the Florida State University College of Music for helping coordinate this successful event.
