KLEIN ANNOUNCES $100,000 IN FUNDING FOR INNOVATIVE CULTURAL PROGRAM TO EDUCATE YOUTH

Bronx, NY — State Senator Jeff Klein (D- Bronx/Westchester), joined by Assemblyman Marcos Crespo (D-Bronx) and the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance, hosted a free concert, featuring the world-renowned Arturo O’Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble, at Soundview Park on Thursday.

The concert launched a partnership between the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance and local school children. Senator Klein announced $100,000 in state funding to the group which will provide musical education to students in the area and bring cultural entertainment to the community.

“I’m so proud that with my $100,000 in funding our children will benefit from the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance which will bring music and heritage into the classroom. These resources will help our youngsters become proficient in musical instruments, learn about musical theory, and study the rich culture and ancestry of Afro Latin Jazz music.  Our local families will enjoy cultural entertainment throughout the year as well,” said Senator Jeff Klein.

“I applaud Senator Jeff Klein leading the way in securing the important funding to expand arts and music education throughout our communities.  This initiative responds to the pleas of the parents and more importantly the needs of our children, giving them a fuller educational experience and enhancing their academic outcomes,” said Assemblyman Crespo.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance we thank you and acknowledge Senator Jeff Klein for his contribution to ALJA for programming in the Bronx.   The Afro Latin Jazz Alliance is dedicated to preserving the music and heritage of Afro Latin jazz, supporting its performance for new audiences and educating young people in the understanding and performance of this important cultural treasure. We are honored to consider Senator Klein a partner in our efforts to ensure the organization’s mission and long-term goals to move the Latin jazz genre forward. Thank you again for supporting the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance,” said Marietta Ulacia, Executive Director, Afro Latin Jazz Alliance.

The funding, secured by Senator Klein, will be used to provide students with musical instruments, as well as exciting classes focused on Afro Latin Jazz, musical theory, and more. The Afro Latin Jazz Alliance was founded in 2007 by Grammy-award winning, pianist and composer Arturo O’Farrill. This organization’s mission is to preserve the music and heritage of big band Latin Jazz.