Jazz Changes Inc

This campaign will serve to raise funds for Youth Jazz Programs to be held at Forte Jazz Lounge. Owner of Forte Jazz Lounge, Joe Clarke, wishes to extend programs and scholarships to deserving students who excel at academics as well as their chosen instrument. Students will be chosen for auditions throughout the school year. Band directors and music teachers will nominate prospective candidates for the programs. Students will audition for spots in a number of settings, Combos, Big Bands, and solo work. Performances will be held at Forte Jazz Lounge so that anyone who donates can see and hear the product of their donations.

Charleston is home to dozens of world-class jazz musicians who have education and performance experience. The programs will seek those individuals to be on the faculty. The more we raise, the more of these teachers we can recruit.

Joe Clarke has been a working musician in Charleston for over 30 years and will serve to coordinate these efforts. As we progress, we can engage in more initiatives to create more opportunities for deserving students.