WBGO Kids Jazz and the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation invite families to experience the rhythm, creativity, and community spirit of jazz at a special Kids Jazz Concert on Saturday, November 22, from 1–2 PM at The Newark Museum of Art. This free, family-friendly event is a wonderful opportunity to introduce children and adults alike to the magic of jazz through an afternoon of music, learning, and fun.
Headlining the event is Calvin Johnson and Native Son, bringing the vibrant sound and soul of New Orleans to Newark. A third-generation saxophonist, composer, and bandleader, Johnson’s passion for jazz was nurtured at the Louis Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp and the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. His impressive career includes performances and recordings with renowned artists such as Harry Connick Jr., Aaron Neville, Jason Derulo, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and more.
Johnson spoke with WBGO's Doug Doyle about the WBGO Kids Jazz concert. The saxophonist now lives in New York, but his New Orleans roots are deep.
"In New Orleans, we like to say that the music belongs to the people. We like to say that the music is folk music. So we use the music to accompany every facet of our life whether you're talking about a birth, a funeral, a church service, a graduation, a birthday party, or just a second line on a Sunday. To me, New Orleans music equals expression. It equals emotion. It equals personality. You know the old men in New Orleans like to say play like how you live."
Johnson is thrilled to be a part of the WBGO Kids Jazz Concert series.
"Coming up in New Orleans and having such great mentors and to be a student in such great programs set up by the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation or New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, I have first-hand experience of what it is like to come through these programs and to take it and keep running. It is my duty and obligation to give back to the next generation."
Calvin Johnson’s most recent album, Notes of a Native Son, showcases his exceptional talent as both a composer and arranger, earning 4 out of 5 stars from DownBeat Magazine and recognition as one of the best albums of 2022.Join us for this lively celebration of jazz’s rich cultural legacy.
Event: Kids Jazz Concert featuring Calvin Johnson and Native Son
Date: Saturday, November 22 Time: 1–2 PM
Location: The Newark Museum of Art
Admission: FreeT
You can SEE Doug Doyle's entire interview with Calvin Johnson below.
