About the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation
For more information, visit www.jazzandheritage.org.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation preserves and advances the cultural legacy of New Orleans and Louisiana through diverse programs, events, and community initiatives. With a core expert sta_ of 17 and a 27-member Board of Directors, the Foundation champions both tradition and innovation.
Jazz Fest, the Foundation’s flagship event and primary fundraiser, attracts global artists while showcasing Louisiana talent. Produced in partnership with Festival Productions Inc. (partially owned by AEG), Jazz Fest is accompanied by other year-round festivals and performances focused on supporting local artists and cultural traditions. The Foundation retains full ownership of all Jazz Fest-related copyrights, trademarks, and licenses, ensuring its sustainable future.
Education is central to the Foundation’s mission. The Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music, housed at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center, o_ers free music education to youth, along with other initiatives such as vocal workshops, beginner music programs, and professional audio training.
The Jazz & Heritage Archive preserves over 50 years of cultural artifacts and historical materials, serving as a resource for institutions like the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian Institution.
Founded in 1980 and owned by the Foundation, WWOZ 90.7-FM connects local and international audiences to New Orleans and Louisiana culture through live broadcasts and streaming of Foundation events. WWOZ’s mission is to be the worldwide voice and flag-bearer of New Orleans’ culture and musical heritage.
The Foundation also plays a key role in grant-making, ensuring the support of musicians, educators, cultural producers, and entrepreneurs by investing proceeds from the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell directly into the community with grants to fund projects that support the Foundation’s mission.
Together, these programs and initiatives embody the Foundation’s mission to celebrate cultural heritage while fostering innovation and ensuring lasting cultural influence.