Jazz Power Institute 2025 Video Highlight 

July 22, 2025:

Last week we welcomed over 30 teachers and teaching artists to Lehman College in the Bronx for the 11th Annual Jazz Power Institute 2025. Once again, the Institute provided participants with a unique and inspiring immersion in jazz music and culture across disciplines of music, dance, theatre and writing. Guest teachers Louise Robinson and Carol Maillard of Sweet Honey in The Rock activated a ring shout and it rang throughout the two days empowering teachers and teaching arts to source tools from jazz and blues to support student learning and creativity and help uplift the communities we work in. Jeremy Pelt presented his interview process for his Griot book series; Charenee Wade and Antoinette Montague led a workshop for our voices; Lisa La Touche gave us a tap dance introduction for our feet and history for our heads; Kena Onyejekwe tapped everyone’s imagination and sourced their stories through theatre. Thanks to Jazz Power Institute co-chairs Antoinette Montague and Kena Onyejekwe and everyone who attended, and thank you to everyone who supported this work, making this immersion in jazz arts possible at this critical time, including the Lehman College Music, Department of Multimedia, Theatre, & Dance, The New York State Council on the Arts, The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, TD Charitable Foundation, The NYC Arts in Education Roundtable, and individual supporters like you!

Thank you!

Eli Yamin, aka “Dr. E”

Managing and Artistic Director

Carol Maillard, Charenee Wade, Louise Robinson

“This was a very informative and effective workshop. The presenters were very prepared and experienced to meet the students where they are and guide us through the exercises. This created an immersive and engaging experience grounded in history and culture which made it an authentic experience.” Institute 2025 participant

“Jazz Power Institute expands your knowledge of music, you are free to express yourself, and may also get inspired by others.”

“It’s a very freeing space to be in and have a cathartic experience through the use of jazz.”