Tending to the Future

“A tree without roots is just a piece of wood.” – Duke Ellington

Spring is a season of renewal, a time when the seeds we plant begin to take root and flourish. At Living Jazz, we see our work as a garden—one that requires dedication, patience, and community care to thrive. As we look ahead, we invite you to join us in tending to the future of jazz, music education, and performance; ensuring its growth for generations to come.

This year marks a profound transition for Living Jazz. After 41 years, Stacey Hoffman, our beloved co-founder, is stepping down. After serving as our Executive Director for 39 years and Camp Director for the past 2 years, this marks 41 years of dedication to Living Jazz.

Through our programs, we plant the seeds of musical knowledge in young minds. Our Living Jazz Children’s Project has expanded to serve 21 schools across Oakland and Contra Costa County, offering free music and dance education to students who might not otherwise have access. These programs are the roots of our mission, fostering creativity, confidence, and joy in every classroom we reach

Our performances and events are where those seeds begin to sprout—giving students and artists alike a space to express their artistry, collaborate, and share the transformative power of jazz with the world. From our concerts to our workshops, each note played and each rhythm shared strengthens the foundation of our growing community.

But the reality is, times are hard. The Town is facing deep divisions, economic struggles, and an urgent need for spaces that bring people together. Living Jazz is committed to being part of the solution—revitalizing Oakland through music, bridging communities, and ensuring that every child and adult, regardless of background, has access to the joy and empowerment that jazz culture provides.

Just as a garden needs steady care to flourish, the future of jazz education requires sustained support. That’s why we’re creating a dedicated fund to ensure that scholarships for our camp programs remain sustainable for years to come. For many families, these scholarships are the only way their children can experience the transformative power of music education.

We need your help to grow this fund. Your gift today will provide immediate support to students and secure the future of these life-changing programs. Whether you contribute $50, $5,000, or more, your generosity will cultivate a thriving, united community where jazz continues to uplift and inspire.

Our fundraising goal is $60,000

We invite you to be part of this lasting legacy by making a donation today. You can also deepen your impact by joining the Redwood Circle, our legacy giving campaign, ensuring that the work we do today will continue for generations to come.

The future of Living Jazz depends on all of us tending to it with care. Your generosity today will help us cultivate the next generation of artists, educators, and community leaders. Together, we can ensure that the music keeps playing, the voices keep rising, and the spirit of jazz continues to unite and uplift us all.

Please make your gift today and help us tend to the future of jazz and our community.

Rooted in gratitude,

Lyz Luke, Executive Director, Living Jazz