On March 23, A Tribe for Jazz had the distinct honor of standing before Columbus City Council as they passed a Resolution of Expression recognizing April as Jazz Appreciation Month and April 30, 2026, as International Jazz Day.

We extend sincere gratitude to Council President Shannon Hardin and the entire Columbus City Council for their leadership and recognition.

Their support sends a clear message: the arts are not optional—they are essential.

A thriving arts ecosystem reflects the soul of a city. It drives connection, fuels creativity, and strengthens communities. Columbus understands that, and we’re proud to be part of that story.

Investing in the Next Generation

A defining highlight of this moment was the presence and recognition of young artists—particularly students from Fort Hayes Career Center and The Ohio State University.

Students from Fort Hayes have taken bold steps toward their futures, applying to the prestigious Berklee ASPIRE Summer Program. They represent exactly what this work is about: building a pipeline for the next generation of jazz artists.

These young musicians are not just learning jazz—they are shaping its future.

Powered by Partnership

None of this work happens in isolation. It is made possible through strong, intentional collaboration across our city.

We are proud to work alongside incredible partners, including:

Columbus Museum of Art, Boys & Girls Club of Central Ohio, See Brilliance, Bexley Public Library, Frank W. Hale Jr. Black Cultural Center, and the Coretta Scott King Center at Antioch College.

This cross-sector collaboration is what makes Jazz Appreciation Month in Columbus not just possible—but impactful.

April Programming: A Month of Jazz in Motion

We invite the community to join us throughout April as we celebrate jazz in all its forms:

  • April 13 – Andrew Theiss Trio (Boys & Girls Club performance)

  • April 19 – Fort Hayes / Berklee ASPIRE Student Performance (Fundraiser)

  • April 23 – Alexis Cunningham (The Ohio State University)

  • April 26 – Coreta Scott King Legacy Banquet featuring Fabian Almazan (Antioch College)

  • April 29 – Moderated Discussion with Milena Casado at the Frank W. Hale Center (Ohio State)

  • April 30 – International Jazz Day Performance: Milena Casado Quartet (Columbus Musem of Art