Message from the Chairman of the Board
“Jazz is what liberates you. It is the most liberating music on the planet”. Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium is proud to host our 25th Anniversary Gala. We are proud to be the only organization consistently supporting the culture that is focused on recognizing the creative forces in our community. Jazz has been and continues to be the voice that sings our joys and sorrows, that incorporates the richness of the African Diaspora. Jazz musicians have always been ahead of the curve in telling our story.
I am proud to be the Chairman of CBJC and fortunate to stand on the shoulders of those visionaries who had a courageous idea in 1999 to have the courage to start an organization that uplifts the community and recognizes the artists, venues and community that have enriched our culture. Today we thank and honor 3 dynamic women, Torrie McCartney, Viola Plummer and Alma Carroll, for having the vision to launch Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium. Jitu Weusi, who was a lion in the community, was chosen to be the first Chairman of the Board. Jitu was instrumental in launching the Central Brooklyn Jazz Festival and securing operating funds from politicians and City agencies. We also honor the former Assemblywoman Annette Robinson, who has been a steadfast supporter of CBJC from its inception.
Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium has been blessed to have presented and honored giants like Max Roach, Randy Weston, Betty Carter, Reggie Workman and so many more.
During the past 25 years many changes have occurred that impacted our direction. Covid had a tremendous impact on how we operated and we had to adjust to a new environment to reach the community. Additionally, funders focused support on the requirement that we provide direct service to community residents.
CBJC launched virtual programs partnering with community organizations to deliver services to the community. We partnered with Investors Bank to provide Financial Literacy to musicians.
After the pandemic, CBJC launched the Noon Time Jazz Series for Seniors partnering with Fort Greene Senior Citizens Council and Bridge Street Development Corp. This spring, we will present a mobile Cultures United Jazz Festival and continue the Noontime Jazz Series. Later in 2025, CBJC will launch the Jitu Weusi Youth Academy providing musical instrument and theory instruction to our youth.
Central Brooklyn jazz Consortium is a 501©3 organization that supports artists and venues who are part of the economic engine in the community. I am proud to be working with an excellent board of directors and staff that understand the vision that will allow the organization to continue to grow. We deeply appreciate your support and participation.
Clarence Mosley, Jr, Chair CBJC Board of Directors.
