Jazz at Lincoln Center Now Accepting Rhythm Road Applications

By I Jun. 19, 2009

Jazz at Lincoln Center is now accepting band applications for the 2009-2010 Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad program. The program, now in its fifth year, is a collaboration with The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Applications are due by Aug. 10.

American music groups from throughout the United States specializing in jazz, urban/hip hop and other American roots music including bluegrass, blues, Cajun, country, gospel and zydeco are invited to apply. The programs’ goal is for these musicians to for the opportunity to travel to countries not frequently visited by American musicians to increase cross-cultural understanding. Over the past four years, 108 musicians from 28 ensembles have toured with the program, visiting 97 countries on five continents.

“In the tradition of such musical alumni as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Dizzy Gillespie, these tours focus on diverse geographic audiences and the dynamic interaction born of music,” said Susan John, director of touring for Jazz at Lincoln Center. “The emphasis on education as well as performance leads to powerful exchange for our audiences and musicians alike.”

For more info go to jalc.org