Pipjazz Foundation

Hi,

I have been involved with Pipjazz Foundation since 2006, before it's inception. Their mission is to bring world class music to the community in a family friendly environment where young people can be inspired to fully engage in the arts.

Of course, it didn't start out as a foundation. Pipjazz is the brainchild of Pippi Ardennia. A Chicago native and singing since she was 13 years old, has performed at many of Chicago's most respected jazz clubs from the Burning Spear, Mr. Kelly's to the famous Rosebud on Rush, Green Dolphin, Chicago Symphony Center and the Taste of Chicago. Since moving to Minnesota, Pippi has appeared at the Dakota Jazz Club, and currently is co-producing as starring in a highly acclaimed concert series at The Bedlam Theater, Lowertown, in St. Paul, MN. She has performed for such notables as President Clinton, Mayor Daley, Tony Bennett, and Liza Minnelli and performed with Freddie Hubbard, George Freeman, Billy Branch and more.

In 2011, Pippi, who has always had the heart of giving back to her community and even those outside, decided to bring young people with the heart for jazz on board, and the Pipjazz Foundation was born!

I, personally, have had the opportunity to meet so many unique, wonderful people in my time with Pipjazz. I have even had the pleasure of meeting some of my favorite musicians that I listened to as a youngster.

Pipjazz inspired 3 of my children to really embrace their musical instruments. I am grateful to Glenn Swanson for encouraging my daughter to play the drums. She is now in an arts high school and she auditioned to get in playing drums! She taught herself after being inspired by Pipjazz.

There are workshops for youth to attend to get a history behind jazz. All of the instrumentalists are female. This gives the young ladies a chance to be inspired to hold on to the love of jazz in a mostly male-dominated forum. After the workshop, those who have brought their instruments or sing get a chance to have a cool jam session with Pippi and all the players. I've seen youth blossom from these sessions! It's amazing.

The organization boasts world-class musicians who give the youth who join a "trial by fire" experience. They have opportunities to play live gigs at family-friendly venues and real, live radio spots to train them in how to speak to their audience. The mentorship never stops. Pipjazz has been a wonderful start for many young people who have a heart for music that makes you feel good!

Pipjazz is a heartsy organization and is open to all. Thank you Pippi and Pipjazz for a great experience!