PERTH AMBOY – The Perth Amboy Free Public Library is hosting “What is Jazz, and Why Does it Matter?” a New Jersey Council for the Humanities Public Scholar’s Program Friday, April 27, 7 p.m. at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA theater. Michael Conklin, Jazz Historian, is the speaker.

Branford Marsalis once said, “What is Jazz?  ” It’s almost like asking, “What is French?” Jazz is a musical language.  It’s a musical dialect that actually embodies the spirit of America.”  Sometimes called “America’s Classical Music”, the tradition and history of the genre embodies the essence of freedom and democracy. From its origins within the slave’s songs, to the advent of the blues, Dixieland, Swing, Bebop, and other styles, jazz exhibits how each individual (through his/her independence) must function within the framework of a group to better serve the entire community.  In this session, through music and discussion, participants will explore jazz and why it matters.

Michael Conklin, is an active Jazz Historian and writer who specializes in jazz history and American music, music of the antebellum South, and issues of race and class.  He is presently pursuing his Doctor of Arts and Letters degree at Drew University.  He spends the majority of his time teaching and writing; his work can be seen in publications by Oxford University Press, Cambridge University Press and Johns Hopkins University Press.

This program is funded by the New Jersey Council for the Humanities (NJCH) and, in part, by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).  Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of NEH or NJCH.

Admission is free; refreshments will be served.