PUFFIN WEST proudly gave a grant to the Jazz Arts Group (JAG) which has transformed the lives of individuals of all ages, backgrounds, interests and abilities through recreational music making, ensemble band playing, after-school and summer programs. JAG is also the home of the Columbus Youth Jazz Band. The Academy also provides technology instruction, lectures and small clinics with world-class jazz artists, composers, arrangers to their students all being opportunities that are not offered anyplace else in central Ohio. The Grant also gives a special nod to in-coming Board President Carol McGuire whose passionate engagement in the community is legendary. JAG has a reputation of challenging their students musically with professional-level music charts that no area high school jazz band would dare undertake. The breadth of musicianship that is taught has helped many, many young players obtain excellent scholarship offers nationally. The impact of JAG with its meaningful programs that reach out to the community at large and to under-served populations is one of Columbus’ treasures.
