Last week, I was given the opportunity to attend the 8th annual Jazz Education Network conference in New Orleans, Louisiana. Let me tell you, I can not stop beaming about this conference. I have never been so humbled to be surrounded by people who have shaped my career. On top of being able to watch performances and attend clinics, I got to sing with the Dayton Jazz Ensemble at the JENerations Jazz Festival within JEN. Upon reflecting on my experience, I compiled a list of thoughts and bits of wisdom to share with all of you. Here's to next year's conference in Dallas, Texas!
1. You will never be able to listen to so many accomplished Jazz musicians in one place ever again.
I went to as many concerts as I could within the duration of the convention. Between 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. there was music coming out of every corner of the gorgeous Hyatt Regency-New Orleans. On top of it, there are no extra fees to see any of these outstanding musicians during the conference.
2. Everyone who is anyone in the Jazz world is at JEN.
From composers to performers to families of famous musicians, everyone was at JEN. I had the opportunity to hear singers who I’ve been blessed to work with and do things like take clinics with composers whose work I’ve previously had the privilege of singing.
3. Remembering names is as important as anything.
While everyone is wearing a name tag, most of the really important clinicians and performers rarely could be spotted wearing theirs. Being able to address someone by name shows that you are focused on professionalism and maintaining connections.
4. People are talented, regardless of age.
I have never heard so many kids under 18 swing like they’ve been doing it for 50 years. While it can be discouraging to hear youngens play so well, it is important to remember that we all have to start somewhere and that practice is everything.
5. Represent your school/institution/yourself in a proud manner.
You never know who you are going to meet or who will know something about your director/institution/band/etc. This means acting with the utmost respect, dressing professionally and presenting yourself as professional musicians, even if you’re still in school.
6. Taking advantage of every opportunity to perform is crucial.
Whether this may mean getting up at nightly jam sessions, or just nailing your scheduled performance, you have to take advantage of performing! You never know who could be in the room to hear you kill it. On top of it, getting complimented by other musicians is a huge pat on the back that you’ll get if you muster up the courage to solo.
7. Bond with your bandmates.
Being forced to stay in a hotel room and attend sessions with your bandmates/coworkers/etc. can be the most positive experience if you think of it that way. I went into JEN only knowing a few kids and came out with 20 new friends because of all the time we spent together.
8. JEN is always located in an incredible city, so go explore.
Having the conference located in major cities around the country is amazing. Being in NOLA was unbelievable. I’ve never seen a city that fosters music the way NOLA does. JEN afforded me the opportunity to not only learn so much about jazz but also experience an entirely new culture.
9. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself.
This is your time to start making a name for yourself. Congratulate colleagues on their performances. Hand out your business card and do some networking. As I said before, you'll never be around so many jazz musicians in one place ever again (unless you go to JEN next year!).
10. Be inspired.
Get ideas. Take notes. Ask questions. Take advantage of everything around you! Even if you’re exhausted, these few days will be some of the best in your entire jazz career.
