UMKC Jazz Friends of the Conservatory of Music and Dance

Jazz Friends is a not-for-profit community support organization of the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance. Established in 2000, Jazz Friends was formed to

• encourage the creative artistry and talent of UMKC Conservatory students and faculty,
• heighten the eminence of the Conservatory Jazz Studies Program, and
• celebrate and promote the legacy of Kansas City jazz.

These goals are accomplished through the active work of volunteers and board members. Activities include attending Jazz Studies Program concerts, fundraisers, social events, and collaboration with other community organizations focused on jazz including Jazz Ambassadors and the American Jazz Museum. Members also provide assistance for the annual jazz festival and jazz camp, visiting faculty clinics, jazz outreach programs and special events throughout the community.

Jazz & BBQ takes place each fall and has become the signature event for Jazz Friends. The dinner, silent auction, and concert grow each year and funds raised provide students scholarships, big band arrangements, travel to national and international competitions, and stipends for adjunct faculty members.

Jazz Friends created the prestigious "Lifetime Achievement Award" to honor Kansas City Jazz legends, jazz educators, and community leaders who have made significant contributions to preserving the legacy of Kansas City jazz. Past recipients include Jay McShann, Claude "Fiddler" Williams, Myra Taylor, Leon Brady, Tony DiPardo, and Robert Watson, Sr.

UMKC Jazz Friends is proud to be a leader in Kansas City's jazz community and invite you to become a member, donate a scholarship, or become a sponsor. We also look forward to your ideas and feedback.