I'm a lifelong music lover who is especially ardent about jazz, America's indigenous art form. I worked for 15 years as jazz editor of the influential former trade publication Radio & Records (R&R). I contribute to the Foundation to Advance Jazz's public-facing expression, thejazzgroove.org. I love the streaming platform's vast, meticulously curated music library and audiophile quality sound. It's elegant, laid-back tunes are perfect for at-work listening and relaxing at home, commercial-free. Even my friends who once thought jazz sounded "like insects crawling on the brain" find it accessible. Most remarkable are the consistent quality of The Jazz Groove's offerings for outstanding composition, performance and production. My life is uplifted and enhanced by The Jazz Groove. I consider it a cultural treasure.
After I retired from my business at 80 years old, it seemed natural for me to spend more time with our family's giving. The Foundation we funded 10 years ago has done very well and has been able to give to many deserving causes. The Foundation to Advance Jazz is my favorite of all. Their presentation of Jazz is something I listen to and enjoy almost every day, several times a day. We recently gave to fund drives for the Hospital, the Space Museum and the Golf Course building campaign. See what I mean, they are great but nothing as satisfying as the Foundation to Advance Jazz. I did Jazz in High School. That was 65 years ago and I still love the same tunes and the artist played by FTAJ everyday. How lucky we are to have their presence in our lives. They make the world better. Richard Ratcliffe, 82, Oklahoma
The Jazz Groove combines its deftly curated musical selections for brilliant programming with truly outstanding audio quality. I recommend The Jazz Groove as simply the best experience online for jazz lovers globally -- a consistently passionate and enriching journey.
The Foundation to Advance Jazz is a top rate organization. They play wonderful jazz music uninterrupted by commercials. The depend on listener contributions only. Their varied jazz library plays old and new selections 24/7. I am proud to be a listener and contributor to this wonderful non profit that lightens and brightens my days.
Great music - great cause - great execution. Glad to see an organization focused on preserving this truly American art form, and to support the artists who created it. It's also created a harbor of peace in a tumultuous time, serving an audience of Jazz supporters who have become part of this community. What the Foundation To Advance Jazz has achieved in reach, impact, professionalism, and service -- within the constraints of a frugal non-profit budget -- is extraordinary.