“I want to build an organization that is reflective of the values of improvisation,” says Mark Christman, founder of Ars Nova Workshop.

“Hamiet was one of the most underrated musicians ever,” says Whitaker of baritone saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett.

“What if we started a record label?” was the question posed by Shifting Paradigm artist and co-founder Zacc Harris.

“I was playing under a tree one day and then for a Beatle the next day,” Robin Nolan says of his friendship with the late George Harrison.

“As human beings, when we talk to one another we can come together in one community,” said Sunny Jain, leader of Red Baraat. “To me, that’s the most important thing.”

“I would follow Barry [Harris] wherever he went,” Pasquale Grasso says of one of his early mentors. “His concept of music resonated with me, and I loved how he approached it.”

“It’s the friendships, the shared experiences and the rhythms and harmonies that tie us together across cultures,” says Rachel Therrien.

“There’s nothing quite like it,” Springs says of working with an orchestra. “It’s 60 people working in harmony in the moment. Singing with them is kind of empowering but also humbling at the same time.”

“I’m not sure if everybody wants just angry music,” says Tobia Meinhart. “Maybe we need something more hopeful and inspiring instead.”

“I had no idea I was gonna be a musician,” says Ayala. “God put music on my plate.”