Jazz Angels

Jazz Angels

Imagine a room filled with the sounds of young musicians, exploring the rhythms and melodies of jazz for the first time. For many of these students, this is more than just music; it’s a lifeline. It’s a place where they gain confidence, find community, and discover a passion that will carry them through life. At Jazz Angels, we believe in the power of music to transform lives. 

Jazz Angels provides in-school, after-school, and weekend jazz education programs for children ages 9-17 from diverse backgrounds and varying musical abilities. Our unique model connects students with their cultural heritage though easy-to-learn personalized arrangements, offering many opportunities for improvisation. Students not only develop their musical skills but also learn about the history and legacy of jazz as a uniquely American art form. And with our low teacher-to-student ratio and supportive rehearsal environment, every child walks away with newfound confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Furthermore, we are committed to supporting communities in need by offering music that reflects and celebrates their cultures. Our programs include partnerships with Long Beach Unified District schools, Salvation Army, Rising Tide, and the United Cambodian Community. We also organize youth performances in local music venues and parks and collaborate on special performances for organizations like the Long Beach VA Hospital, Jewish and Family Children Services, Miller Children’s Hospital, and Young Horizons. And through our “Support the Port” education program, we’ve introduced teens from under-resourced areas to internship and employment opportunities at the Port of Long Beach. 

Your Support Matters

This summer, the need for our programs skyrocketed. The number of youth on scholarships grew from 40 to 125, and we need your support to continue providing these vital opportunities. For many of these students, Jazz Angels is not just a music program—it’s a chance to connect, grow, and thrive.

With your help, we can continue to provide these life-changing opportunities to even more young musicians. Every donation plays a crucial role in making these transformative experiences possible. Your support helps us provide essential instruments, offer enriching lessons, and create performance opportunities that ignite passion and confidence in these young musicians. By contributing, you’re not just supporting a nonprofit; you’re investing in the dreams and futures of the next generation.

Together, we can ensure that Jazz Angels continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for more children in our community.

What Our Community Says About Jazz Angels

Want to hear from the students and families themselves? Read some of their stories below and see firsthand how Jazz Angels is making a lasting difference. 

 “Our son’s seventh grade year was challenging for him. One of the turnarounds for him came through Jazz Angels. He found himself with a group of people who were dedicated to their art, committed to excellence, and most decidedly very cool. The encouragement he received from you was an integral part of his “finding himself,” by midsummer he was loving life again; very into his music, and a joy to all of us. He does not need to be reminded to practice but plays for the love of the art! Thanks for your dedication and example to our son, our enthusiasm for the program is boundless.”

– Joe B.

 “Our daughter has been selected to perform in the All-State High School Symphony Orchestra in San Jose this week. Well, she learned today (after her all-state chair test) that she has been assigned principal bass! Jazz Angels, though a very different style of music, has helped her to feel more comfortable on her instrument. I honestly don’t think she could have earned this honor without the experience she gained from playing with your group. So thank you for giving her the opportunity and for all the great work you do for the kids.”

– Chris L.

“Thanks [Jazz Angels] for such an enriching year for our son as part of the Jazz Angels. He has learned so much from being a part of the group. You have developed something so special. So glad we had the opportunity to learn from you.”

– Juliette K.

 “My sister and her husband can't stop raving about you and Albert (and Will), and how amazing you all are!!! You are changing lives and forming personalities!”

– Kim D.

“The gift of music begins with an instrument in the hands of [a] young child that will later spark generations of future musicians to further progress, share experiences, and build relationships. It all begins with a horn in the hands of a child, and that is what the Jazz Angels have accomplished in their generous donation of eleven slightly used instruments to our music program.”

– Randy R.