Jazz groups often perform at events sponsored by artistic grants.
Many organizations that support the arts dedicate funds to sponsor education, creation and presentation of artistic works and performances. Jazz is considered an art form with its roots in America, and as such, is widely supported by American artistic grant funds. Grants for jazz performances are often also used for educational activities which are presented at sponsored jazz events.
National Endowment for the Arts
The National Endowment for the Arts regularly contributes to jazz performances, including the sponsored tour of Jazz Masters Live which brings live performers, writers, scholars and producers into several communities across the United States. The multicity tour features jazz performances from top-rated artists who interact with the audience for activities, clinics, lectures and classes which are all funded by NEA grants. The NEA supports several events making contributions to the art of playing jazz.
Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation
The Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation awards grants for jazz tours through the Jazz Touring Network designed to bring jazz performances to under-served communities throughout the Midwestern states. Presenters of the touring companies are equipped with the necessary elements to establish jazz performances for their venues year round. The foundation also sponsors the French-American Jazz Exchange for the primary development of jazz artists through performance collaborations in front of audiences from both countries and partnering nations.
Chamber Music America
Chamber Music America offers grants and awards to jazz musicians for performances, as well as hosting professional artistic development programs and an annual jazz conference. CMA artistic grant funds have gone to several jazz bands and touring companies since the organization was established in 1977. The organization also sponsors development and educational programs aimed at fostering jazz musicians talents and abilities, as well as funding live performances of modern and traditional jazz throughout the country.
State-Funded Arts Grant Programs
Many jazz performances are funded through grants provided by state organizations. State grants are responsible for music programs in schools, elderly care facilities, hospitals and penitentiaries. States provide funds for sponsored jazz events to the presenting facilities or venues to pay performers, although some states sponsor touring companies that make educational presentations along with jazz performances. The Virginia Commission for the Arts is a state organization with a history of funding jazz musicians and performances.
