The George Melvin Educational Fund was created within weeks of the death of this beloved Jazz keyboard artist and gentle man on April 15, 2010. The first fundraising event for this Fund was held on July 24, 2010, and the community responded both enthusiastically and generously.
Since that time the Charlottesville Jazz Society has accepted additional contributions to the Fund at the Monthly Educator Series meetings, and Fellini’s has begun a “Youth Wednesdays” night of entertainment on the first Wednesday of each month, that showcases young jazz artists from the region. A portion of the evening’s sales is donated to the George Melvin Educational Fund. It is the intention of Charlottesville Jazz Society to make this an annual event, toward helping young people discover and learn about Jazz.
The Educational Fund has enabled Charlottesville Jazz Society to offer an Elementary level package of Jazz teaching resources to both Albemarle County Schools and Charlottesville City Schools; also four significant cash awards have been created for city and county high school students who are musically gifted, in need of financial assistance for lessons, and who show a love for Jazz. Youth who are selected for this award will also have access to additional mentoring opportunities through the Jazz Society’s activities.
If you believe that music is an important part of a child’s life then we encourage you to financially support the educational efforts of the Charlottesville Jazz Society. Click on this link if you would like to make a donation to the George Melvin Education Fund.
If you are a student, teacher, or parent and would like information about this program please fill out the form below and we will get back with you soon. Thank you for your interest.