A forward-thinking initiative aimed at reshaping the jazz landscape has unveiled its latest group of trailblazers. The 2025 cohort of Next Jazz Legacy, a collaboration between New Music USA and the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice, highlights eight emerging improvisers set to redefine the genre. Funded by the Mellon Foundation, this program offers mentorship and professional development opportunities to artists historically underrepresented in jazz, focusing on gender and racial equity. Selected through an extensive review process led by Terri Lyne Carrington, these musicians will engage in year-long apprenticeships with master bandleaders and receive guidance from creative mentors aligned with their artistic visions.
The Next Jazz Legacy initiative continues to champion diversity within the music industry. Under the leadership of Terri Lyne Carrington, an NEA Jazz Master and the program's artistic director, a distinguished panel meticulously chose this year's awardees. Each musician was paired with a renowned bandleader and a creative mentor based on their unique interests and talents. Among the selected artists is British trumpeter Alexandra Ridout, whose accolades include winning the BBC Young Musician Jazz Award in 2016 and being named one of London’s most influential people under 25 in 2019. This cohort also features unconventional instruments such as the Korean gayageum and Afro-Cuban percussion, showcasing the breadth of innovation within jazz.
Through performances at prestigious events like Winter Jazzfest and collaborations with celebrated names in jazz, these artists are poised to make significant contributions to the genre. Beyond their musical achievements, they confront challenges ranging from sexism to socio-economic barriers, underscoring the program's commitment to fostering inclusivity. For instance, Carmen Quill, an upright bassist from Brooklyn, NY, will work closely with Billy Hart, while Melissa Almaguer, a tap dance artist, will collaborate with David Virelles. These partnerships promise to enrich both the artists' careers and the broader jazz community.
The impact of Next Jazz Legacy extends beyond individual success stories. With renewed support from the Mellon Foundation until 2027, the program ensures that vital funding and collaborative learning opportunities reach more artists. Vanessa Reed, President & CEO of New Music USA, expressed excitement about welcoming this new cohort, emphasizing the importance of building a more inclusive future for jazz. As these musicians prepare to debut together on May 14th at The Jazz Gallery in New York, anticipation grows for how they will transform the genre. Their collective journey exemplifies the power of mentorship and community in nurturing groundbreaking talent.
This year's cohort not only reflects the rich diversity of modern jazz but also embodies its evolving spirit. By providing platforms for underrepresented voices, Next Jazz Legacy is paving the way for a more equitable and vibrant musical landscape. Through performances, mentorships, and shared experiences, these artists are set to leave an indelible mark on the world of jazz, inspiring future generations to embrace creativity and inclusivity.