Welcome
The Seattle Jazz Heritage Foundation ensures that the story of jazz is told with historical integrity and visibilizes African American musicians in jazz’s evolution.
Founder’s Statement
In the past six years, I’ve had the opportunity to experience Seattle’s rich and celebrated jazz legacy through performances, participation in many of the city's vibrant jazz events, and conversations with musicians, educators, historians, and arts leaders. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for Seattle's contributions to jazz while revealing an important opportunity.
Although jazz is widely recognized and celebrated as an African American art form, there are few dedicated spaces where its cultural heritage is preserved through the visible presence, stories, leadership, and lived experiences of the people who created it. Likewise, Black youth remain underrepresented in many jazz education programs, creating a disconnect between the music's origins and those who are encouraged to carry its legacy forward.
This Jazz Heritage Foundation was founded to help bridge that gap.
Robert N. Warfield, Founder
Vision
We envision a cultural home in Seattle where jazz is not only celebrated as an extraordinary musical tradition, but also preserved as a living expression of African American history, resilience, creativity, and innovation.
Mission
Rather than simply celebrating jazz, we will preserve and promote its cultural heritage, elevate the next generation of jazz artists and leaders, and ensure that the African American community remains visible, engaged, and central to the ongoing story of this uniquely American art form through immersive cultural experiences, educational workshops, mentorships, and performances.
Collaboration Partners
Team Members
Robert Warfield
TK Blue
Advisory Board
Board Member 1
Board Member 2