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Why I Write

Why I Write

Celebrating Local Talent & The Arts This April

By Miguel Juarez

As spring unfolds, Columbus is gearing up for an exciting month dedicated to the arts. April brings with it the much-anticipated “ArtsFest,” a celebration made possible by the collaborative efforts of our vibrant arts community, including Visit Columbus and its current and former presidents, as well as city arts liaison Carrie Beth Wallace. Throughout the month, various events will highlight the artistic expression in our city, culminating in the community’s grand gathering at Arts in The Park on April 27 at Lakebottom Park.

In addition to the festivities of ArtsFest, the Columbus Jazz Society (CJS) is thrilled to announce the inaugural Fountain City Jazz Festival on April 12 at the Jordan High School Auditorium. This event promises to be a significant milestone for local music, showcasing the talents of school-aged jazz bands from surrounding districts, as well as a jazz combo from the U.S. Army.

Judges for this prestigious event include seasoned musicians Jason DeBlanc, Jan Hyatt, Adam Mitchell, and Luther Smalls, who will provide valuable critiques for participants in the Rhythm, Vocal, Brass, and Woodwind sections. The festival not only highlights young talent but also supports the next generation of musicians through the CJS 2025 Scholarships. This year, two high school students will each receive $750, while one college student will be awarded $1,500.

The performance lineup for the Fountain City Jazz Festival is as follows:

• 2:45-3:15 PM: Veterans Memorial Middle School

• 3:30-4:00 PM: Kendrick High School

• 4:15-4:45 PM: Rainey-McCullers High School

• 5:00-5:30 PM: Columbus State University

• 5:45-6:15 PM: MCoE Jazz Combo

• 6:30-7:00 PM: Scholarships/Awards Presentation

As a member of the Columbus Jazz Society since 2022, my journey has been guided by three core objectives: securing decent-paying gigs for local musicians, honoring our musical elders, and fostering a love for music among our youth. Together, we have not only realized these aspirations but have also laid the groundwork for future growth and continuity within our burgeoning music and arts scene. The enthusiasm is palpable; the floodgates of culture are open, and there’s no turning back now.

We invite everyone to join us on April 12 for the Fountain City Jazz Festival, an event which promises to bring together artists, families, and music enthusiasts in celebration of local talent and the vibrancy of our community. Let us embrace this moment and prepare for an outpouring of creativity, camaraderie, and the

unmistakable Columbus experience. We look forward to seeing you there!

CJS Featured Musician: Mike Jerel

This month, we spotlight Mike Jerel, a talented musician whom I had the pleasure of meeting back in 2012 while performing with Cynthia and The Chemistry Band. From our first jam session, Mike’s style, showmanship, and profound musical understanding were evident. Since then, his skills have grown exponentially, establishing him as one of Columbus’ most recognized names, both locally and internationally. One thing which stands out about Mike is his genuine love for sharing the experience of music; it’s hard to imagine a performance where he isn’t grinning from ear to ear.

Mike Jerel

CJS : What got you into jazz/blues music?

MJ: I was initially introduced to jazz by my band director as a 6th-grade trumpet player. He gifted me Miles Davis’ album, Kind of Blue, and I was hooked from the first listen.

CJS: What makes you excited about playing jazz/blues in Columbus?

MJ: Playing brings me sheer joy. Expressing myself musically is a crucial form of self-care. I can communicate what I’m feeling, which allows me to effectively emit those emotions. Columbus is home to me, and the city played a significant role in my development as a musician. Both of these factors contribute to my overall excitement about playing here.

CJS: Where can people hear you play?

MJ: I currently perform all over the world! I’m fortunate enough to travel and share this gift of music throughout the United States and internationally.

CJS: Can you recommend three jazz/blues artists for beginner, intermediate, and advanced listeners?

MJ: Only three? Here you go: Samara Joy, Freddie Hubbard, and Robert Glasper.

CJS: Who is your favorite local musician, and why?

(Doesn’t have to be jazz)

MJ: Narrowing it down to one favorite musician is tough. As a freshman in college, I spent every Friday night listening to Peggy Jenkins & the Bizness at The Loft. I fell in love with the authenticity and energy in that room.

CJS: What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?

MJ: Spend time with your instrument daily, and set realistic goals for yourself. Then go out and accomplish them.

CJS: Do you have a favorite quote or saying?

MJ: “It’s not the teaching, it’s the learning.”

- Sly Stone

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