International Jazz Day AZ's mission is to promote, preserve, perpetuate, and encourage the music, culture, and heritage of communities in Arizona through producing festivals, music education programs, and other cultural, educational, civic, and economic activities. We provide free music classes and instruments to kids at Risk. We have made changes to our 501-C3 Article to introduce a new initiative called Jazz Town USA in response to the pandemic's effects on musicians. This unique program aims to provide affordable housing that caters to the distinctive needs of musicians.

JAZZ TOWN USA, AFFORDABLE HOUSING

FOR MUSICIANS ARE COMING

The International Jazz Day AZ Foundation, in partnership with Moli Development Company, is proud to announce the development of Jazz Town USA—a community designed to support creative artists and musicians, featuring affordable housing. The project will offer safe, modern, and low-cost living options in 2-bedroom/2-bath and 3-bedroom/2-bath units to musicians and their families.

By addressing the critical shortage of affordable housing for the creative community, Jazz Town USA will foster an environment where musicians can live, create, and contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of Arizona—especially in alignment with Scottsdale and the State of Arizona’s mission to use International Jazz Day and jazz tourism to drive cultural tourism and local economic growth.

These spacious and modern 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhomes provide access to all that Phoenix has to offer while still offering an oasis of calm to call home. Each unit will feature a double garage with EV charging capabilities, a private courtyard, lush landscaping, and two flexible spaces. Modern new appliances, 10-foot ceilings, and ample natural lighting make these units a luxurious haven in Midtown.

Giving students access to instruments and music education

Uniting Arizona around International Jazz Day

Nayo Jones putting on a great show at the Scottsdale Jazz Festival

Create a unique initiative called "Jazz Town USA," a community-based housing and music academy focused on supporting musicians. This venture combines your passion for jazz and your skills in home development. **Core Concept:** Jazz Town USA will provide affordable housing specifically designed for aspiring and seasoned musicians, along with an integrated music academy that offers mentorship, workshops, and performance opportunities. **Value Proposition:** By addressing the dual needs of affordable housing and music education, Jazz Town USA fills a significant gap for young artists who struggle to find both stability and training in their craft within their community.

Governor Hobbs' Vision on affordable housing:

PHOENIX — Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs said Tuesday she is actively working on negotiating a compromise on House Bill 2570, also known as the Arizona Starter Homes Act, which was created as an attempt to increase affordable housing options in the state. Hobbs vetoed the bill last year, calling it "a step too far" in her veto letter. While seeking a "better balance," the governor initially said the bill would create a "housing reform experiment with unclear outcomes."

Founder and Executive Director of Local Jazz Day AZ Foundation Joins Worldwide 'International Jazz Day' Organization as a Partner!

United States Delegate
William "Doc" Jones

International Jazz Day is made possible thanks to the voluntary efforts of organizers at all levels of civil society in more than 190 countries worldwide. Whether small or large, organizations have an important role to play in facilitating the global celebration, lending their resources and accumulated expertise to curate multifaceted programs that make significant impacts on the local community.

Thanks to these efforts, International Jazz Day has become a widely anticipated moment on municipal and regional cultural calendars, promoting capacity building in the relevant cultural sectors and increased awareness of jazz and its role as a vector for peace and intercultural dialogue. The International Jazz Day organization recognizes those institutions who have generously devoted their time and resources to ensuring that International Jazz Day is celebrated in a way that truly reflects its global identity.

Excerpts from a recent interview with 'International Jazz Day':

Tell us a little about your organization’s mission.
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to unite the state around a resolution proclaiming April 30 International Jazz Day in the State of Arizona.

Why does your organization celebrate International Jazz Day?
Not only have I been a professional jazz musician for 30 years, I have also been a music educator using jazz as a means to reduce crime in my community, as well as to promote staying in school for young people at risk.

Tell us about a favorite memory from International Jazz Day.
My favorite memory is when the full Arizona House and Senate, as well as the Governor and eight Mayors from around the State all presented us with a proclamation declaring April 30th International Jazz Day, as well as our 2nd “Jazz At Lunch Time” at the State Capitol.

How do you think jazz can improve people’s lives?
It allows those who are listening or playing this form of music the opportunity to be creative.

WHAT WE DO

The International Jazz Day AZ Foundation is an Arizona-based 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the virtues of jazz in education, economic development, and cultural enrichment.

In collaboration with UNESCO and renowned musician Herbie Hancock, we have been actively bringing the State of Arizona together for International Jazz Day. Our mission is not only to celebrate this vibrant genre but also to make a lasting impact through our state’s official celebration, which includes organizing dynamic jazz festivals that unite musicians and audiences alike.

Moreover, we are thrilled to announce our latest initiative: the development of affordable housing specifically for musicians. This project aims to foster a supportive environment for artists who make significant contributions to our cultural landscape.