Musical performances to show middle schoolers African-American history through evolution of jazz

WHO: Portland Jazz Festival
Portland State University Jazz Professor Darrell Grant
Portland Trail Blazers alumni

WHAT: In conjunction with Black History Month, the Portland Trail Blazers have partnered with the Portland Jazz Festival to present 'Incredible Journey of Jazz' performances to approximately 2,000 students at five Portland middle schools.

The 60-minute musical theater performance, developed by Portland State University professor and pianist Darrell Grant along with the Leroy Vinegar Jazz Institute, traces African-American history in tandem with the evolution of jazz.

Students are exposed to music from African rhythms through gospel, ragtime, blues and ultimately to jazz.

WHEN: Monday, February 22
1:30 PM
Beverly Cleary School
1915 NE 33rd Ave

Tuesday, February 23
10:10 AM
George Middle School
10000 N Burr Ave

Wednesday, February 24
2:00 PM
Harriet Tubman Leadership
Academy for Young Women
2231 N Flint

Thursday, February 25
8:30 AM
Alice Ott Middle School
12500 SE Ramona St

Friday, February 26
9:30 AM
Ron Russell Middle School
3955 SE 112th Ave